Had tmj for couple of years and noticed that my jaw is leaning slightly to side where jaw tightness/ ear problems are worse. what does this mean ?

TMJ dysfunction: When a lower jaw deviates to one side, it generally means the disc is not sitting on the head of the condyle. That is called internal derangement, and means that the patient has TMJ dysfunction. You should be evaluated by a doctor that is well versed in the conservative non-surgical treatment of TMJ dysfunction.

TMJ: Look for a dentist in your area that has extra training in tmj. They will take records and determine the appropriate treatment for you.

Bite imbalance: When your jaw closes and opens it is being torqued, or twisted. The muscles do not pull evenly. A bite appliance that eliminates the twisting may help you. See a neuromuscular dentist.

Hard to correlate: You need to be examined to determine what this means. See a TMJ expert. Any dentist can be a TMJ expert with the proper training and experience. Most commonly, oral surgeons, prosthodontists, and orofacial pain specialists. Ask your MD, your dentist and your dental society for referrals.

TMJ syndrome: Temporo-mandibular syndrome is the second most frequent cause of orofacial pain after dental pain. TMJ syndrome may cause ear pain, ringing in the ears, jaw pain and teeth pain. Proper diagnosis is the key to successful treatment. See Orofacial Pain expert for a consultation and treatment options.