Is It Normal To Have Ear Pain After Tooth Extraction?

After having your teeth extracted, you expected some ache, but now your ear is hurting as well! What’s happening? You are not dreaming, so don’t worry. Due to the link between your teeth, jaw, and ears, earache following dental procedures is normal. Is it common, though? How much time will it take? More importantly, what are some ways to obtain relief?

This tutorial will explain the reasons behind post-tooth extraction ear pain, its usual duration, and the most effective methods for reducing discomfort. Learn when ear pain is a normal component of healing and when it’s an indication that you should see a dentist by reading on.

What Causes Ear Pain Post-Extraction?

A system of muscles and nerves connects your jaw, teeth, and ears. Pain that occasionally travels to the ear can result from irritation of the tissues and nerves around the tooth extraction area.

Typical Reasons for Ear Pain Following The Treatment

• Following a tooth extraction, the trigeminal nerve, which provides feeling to the jaw and face, may transmit pain signals to the ear.
  
• Swelling and inflammation at the extraction site can put strain on nearby nerves, resulting in ear pain.
  
• Nerves can get exposed and cause excruciating pain that may radiate to the ear if the protective blood clot at the extraction site dislodges.
  
• During extraction, keeping your mouth open for a long time might put a strain on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which can cause jaw and ear pain.
  
• The removal of an upper molar can have an impact on the surrounding sinuses, causing ear pressure and discomfort.

How Long Does This Ear Pain Last?

As swelling and inflammation go down, the majority of post-extraction earache goes away in a few days to a week. But if your discomfort gets intense, ongoing, or becomes worse, it can be a sign of anything more serious, such as a dry socket or infection.

Are you aware? The American Dental Association estimates that dry socket, a leading cause of post-extraction pain, occurs in 2–5% of tooth extractions. 

So, How To Get Rid of Ear Pain After Extracting Teeth?

Use these easy suggestions to reduce discomfort and hasten healing:

• Use ice packs to minimize swelling on your cheek for 15 to 20 minutes.
• Use acetaminophen or ibuprofen as a pain reliever.
• Strictly ignore tobacco, straws, and rigorous washing.
• Warm compress helps in releasing tense jaw muscles.
• Soft foods avoid inflammation in the vicinity of the extraction site.
• Maintain a gentle oral hygiene; avoid the wound, and rinse with salt water.

Visit a dentist if the pain continues.

Ear Pain After Extraction is Usually Temporary

Although it can be distressing, ear pain following tooth extraction is typically a transient side effect of the healing process. Because your teeth, jaw, and ears are so closely connected, some discomfort is usual. But don’t be afraid to call our dentist if it gets worse or doesn’t go away.