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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Severe Pain In The Exterior Of The Ear?

The exterior of my ear hurts intermittently. It has been hurting for several years, sometimes only once in a year, some years go by without the pain. But lately, it has hurt two times in the last month. It is not swimmer s ear or an infection. A friend mentioned that it could be TMJ, and suggested I see a dentist. I recently saw my dentist and she made no comment that I might be grinding my teeth at night. The pain occurs when I smile or laugh if that gives you useful information.
Fri, 22 Feb 2019
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Dentist,  's  Response
Hi Dear,

Understanding your concern. As per your query you have symptoms of severe pain in the exterior of the ear which seems to be due to bruxism, TML problem like ankylosis and TML disc problem, malocclusion and could be due to ear infection or parotid gland infection. I would suggest you to consult oral surgeon for proper examination. Doctor may order CT scan TMJ to confirm the diagnosis . Doctor may also check the occlusion. Doctor may give night guard, refer you to orthodontics for correction of occlusion or recommend surgery for TMJ problem if required. Doctor may also recommend physical therapy along with stretching exercises . For now eat soft food , apply warm compresses to TMJ and take ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain. Doctor may also refer you to ENT specialist for ear problem and parotid infection.

Hope your concern has been resolved.

Best Wishes,
Dr. Harry Maheshwari
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What Causes Severe Pain In The Exterior Of The Ear?

Hi Dear, Understanding your concern. As per your query you have symptoms of severe pain in the exterior of the ear which seems to be due to bruxism, TML problem like ankylosis and TML disc problem, malocclusion and could be due to ear infection or parotid gland infection. I would suggest you to consult oral surgeon for proper examination. Doctor may order CT scan TMJ to confirm the diagnosis . Doctor may also check the occlusion. Doctor may give night guard, refer you to orthodontics for correction of occlusion or recommend surgery for TMJ problem if required. Doctor may also recommend physical therapy along with stretching exercises . For now eat soft food , apply warm compresses to TMJ and take ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain. Doctor may also refer you to ENT specialist for ear problem and parotid infection. Hope your concern has been resolved. Best Wishes, Dr. Harry Maheshwari