Ear and jaw pain: 6 common causes and what to do next

Ear and jaw pain can show up in surprising ways. Maybe it begins as a dull ache near your ear or a sharp twinge when you chew. Because the ear and jaw share several nerves and lie close together, discomfort in one spot often radiates into the other—which can make it hard to figure out what’s actually going on.

The reassuring news is that most causes of ear and jaw pain are treatable. Below, we break down six likely causes, how doctors diagnose the issue, and what you can do to start feeling better.

• What causes ear and jaw pain?
• How do doctors diagnose ear and jaw pain?
• What treatment options are available?
• Understanding your next steps

Note: Our Hearing Care Providers (HCPs) are here to support your ear health and provide personalized guidance. However, if you’re concerned about ear and jaw pain or other medical issues affecting your hearing, always consult with your healthcare provider as your first priority.

What causes ear and jaw pain?

Ear and jaw pain often overlap because the areas share nerves, muscles, and structural connections. These are six of the most common reasons people experience pain in both places.

1. TMJ disorders 

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the lower jaw to the skull. Issues affecting the TMJ are a common cause of ear pain because when this joint becomes irritated or strained, it can cause discomfort that radiates toward the ear.

Signs often include clicking or popping when opening the mouth, jaw stiffness, headaches, soreness when chewing, and tinnitus. Because the joint sits right beside the ear canal, it’s easy for TMJ discomfort to feel like ear pain. TMJ issues may be linked to grinding, stress, arthritis, or jaw misalignment.

2. Swimmer’s ear (otitis externa)

Swimmer’s ear is an infection of the outer ear canal. Moisture that becomes trapped inside the ear can create the ideal environment for bacteria to grow, resulting in symptoms including itching, tenderness, and sharp or throbbing ear pain. Because of shared nerve pathways, inflammation in this area can sometimes make chewing or talking uncomfortable.

For more, see our guide to swimmer’s ear.

3. Teeth grinding (bruxism)

Grinding or clenching your teeth, whether during sleep or because of daily stress, puts pressure on the jaw muscles. Over time, this can irritate the TMJ and create referred ear pain. You may also notice morning headaches, tooth sensitivity, or jaw tightness.

4. Arthritis

Arthritis can affect the TMJ just like any other joint. When the cartilage wears down or inflammation develops, you may feel pain in the jaw that extends toward the ear. Both osteoarthritis and inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can contribute.

5. Sinus infections

The sinuses sit close to the ears and jaw. When they become congested or inflamed, pressure can build up and radiate outward. Sinus infections often cause facial pressure, a blocked nose, post-nasal drip, or reduced smell—symptoms that may accompany ear or jaw discomfort.

6. Dental issues

Cavities, infected gums, abscesses, and impacted teeth can all trigger pain that spreads to the jaw and ear. Because tooth and jaw nerves are so closely connected, even small dental problems can lead to significant discomfort elsewhere.

How do doctors diagnose ear and jaw pain?

To figure out where the pain is coming from, a healthcare provider will typically begin with a physical exam and a discussion of your symptoms. They may check inside your ears for infection or inflammation and examine your jaw for tenderness, limited movement, or clicking sounds.

If needed, your healthcare provider may order imaging—such as an X-ray, CT scan, or MRI—to look more closely at the TMJ, sinuses, or middle ear. Dental X-rays may also be recommended if a tooth-related issue is suspected.

What treatment options are available?

Treatment depends on the underlying cause, but many people find relief with simple at-home measures or targeted care. Common options include:

• Warm or cold compresses to loosen tense muscles or soothe inflammation
• Gentle jaw-stretching exercises to improve movement
• Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen
• Treating underlying infections when present (ear or sinus)
• Dental treatment for cavities, gum disease, or grinding
• Stress reduction techniques to ease clenching and tension

If your symptoms also include muffled hearing, our guide to sudden muffled hearing explains how inflammation affects the ear.

Understanding your next steps

Ear and jaw pain can be uncomfortable and sometimes confusing, but most causes are treatable once you understand the underlying issue. Paying attention to your symptoms and seeking help when needed can make a big difference in how quickly you find relief.

Key takeaways

• Ear and jaw pain often share the same nerves and pathways.
• TMJ disorders, sinus problems, infections, dental issues, and arthritis are common causes.
• A medical or dental exam can help pinpoint the source.
• Most causes respond well to a mix of self-care and professional treatment.

If you’re experiencing ear discomfort along with changes in your hearing, we’re here to help. You can book a free hearing test or find a Connect Hearing clinic near you to take the next step.