From the Research
I strongly recommend that you consult an otolaryngologist (ENT specialist) promptly to address your recurring eustachian tube dysfunction, as it may be related to your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) stiffness and blocked tear ducts following wisdom teeth extraction. Your symptoms, including muffled hearing, suggest a possible connection between your jaw problems and ear symptoms, likely due to the proximity of the TMJ to the eustachian tubes, which regulate middle ear pressure and drainage 1.
While awaiting your appointment, you may find temporary relief by continuing your stretching exercises and using nasal saline rinses, such as NeilMed sinus rinse, twice daily, as well as over-the-counter decongestants like pseudoephedrine (30mg every 4-6 hours, not exceeding 120mg daily) for short-term use 2. Applying warm compresses to your face for 10 minutes several times daily may also help relieve muscle stiffness.
The most recent and highest quality study on this topic, published in 2025, suggests that balloon dilatation of the Eustachian tube may be an effective treatment option for obstructive Eustachian tube dysfunction in adults, with low-certainty evidence showing a reduction in patient-reported symptoms up to three months after treatment 1. However, the evidence is very uncertain beyond three months, and further research is needed to determine the long-term effectiveness of this treatment.
It is essential to have a professional evaluation by an ENT specialist to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and to rule out any potential infections or other conditions that may require antibiotics or other treatments 3, 4, 5. The ENT specialist can assess your condition and provide a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs and improve your quality of life.
Some key points to consider:
- The connection between TMJ and eustachian tube dysfunction is well-established, and addressing one issue may help alleviate the other 2.
- Nasal saline rinses and over-the-counter decongestants may provide temporary relief, but a comprehensive treatment plan is necessary to address the underlying cause of your symptoms 1.
- An ENT specialist can perform a thorough evaluation and provide a personalized treatment plan, which may include balloon dilatation of the Eustachian tube or other surgical or non-surgical interventions 3, 4, 5.