Differential Diagnosis for Tooth Sensitivity after Filling
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- High filling or improper occlusion: The filling may be too high, causing the tooth to hit the opposing tooth first, leading to sensitivity. Alternatively, the filling may not be properly shaped, resulting in an uneven bite.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Reversible pulpitis: The tooth pulp may be inflamed due to the filling procedure, causing sensitivity.
- Dentin hypersensitivity: The dentin layer of the tooth may be exposed, leading to sensitivity to temperature, pressure, or sweet stimuli.
- Microleakage or secondary caries: Bacteria may have entered the tooth through a small gap between the filling and the tooth, causing decay or sensitivity.
- Cracked tooth syndrome: A small crack in the tooth may be causing sensitivity, especially if the filling is not properly bonded to the tooth.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Pulpal necrosis or abscess: The tooth pulp may be dead or infected, requiring urgent attention to prevent serious complications, such as abscess formation or spread of infection.
- Cracked tooth with pulp exposure: A crack in the tooth may have exposed the pulp, leading to severe pain and potentially life-threatening complications if left untreated.
Rare Diagnoses
- Dental sinus or fistula: A rare condition where a sinus tract or fistula forms between the tooth and the surrounding tissue, causing sensitivity and potentially serious complications.
- Eagle syndrome: A rare condition where the styloid process is elongated, causing pain and sensitivity in the teeth and surrounding tissues.
- Trigeminal neuralgia: A rare condition where the trigeminal nerve is irritated, causing severe pain and sensitivity in the face and teeth.