In about half the cases of referred ear pain, the problem is with the teeth or mouth, and might be better diagnosed by a dentist. An abscessed or fractured tooth, periodontal disease or impacted wisdom tooth may cause ear pain. You may need a complete dental evaluation, including all the necessary X-rays. Another mouth problem that can cause pain in a normal ear is temporomandibular joint dysfunction, where the lower jaw is not properly seated in its joint with the rest of the skull.
Ear pain has other possible causes, including sinus, tonsil, salivary gland, and throat infections. Neuralgias of the nerves to the face and head or a condition called temporal arteritis may also show
up as ear pain.
up as ear pain.
Although rare, other causes that might be considered are tumors of the chest, neck and head.
