Differential Diagnosis for Bilateral Jaw Pain and Cheek Pain
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder: The symptoms of bilateral jaw pain, worse with opening the mouth, and burning/stabbing pain in the cheek are classic for TMJ disorder. This condition affects the joint that connects the jawbone to the skull and can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw, face, and surrounding areas.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Bruxism: Grinding or clenching of the teeth can lead to jaw pain, especially if it occurs at night. The pain can radiate to the cheeks and be exacerbated by opening the mouth.
- Trigeminal Neuralgia: This condition involves sudden, severe, and stabbing pain in parts of the face, which can include the cheeks. Although it typically affects one side of the face, it could potentially cause bilateral pain.
- Dental Problems: Issues like abscesses, impacted teeth, or gum disease can cause pain in the jaw and cheeks, especially if the problem is severe or widespread.
- Do Not Miss diagnoses
- Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Although this condition primarily affects the eyes, it can cause severe pain that radiates to the face, including the cheeks and jaw. It is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.
- Giant Cell Arteritis: This condition involves inflammation of the blood vessels and can cause jaw pain, especially when chewing or opening the mouth. It is more common in older adults and can lead to serious complications if left untreated.
- Osteonecrosis of the Jaw: This rare but serious condition involves the death of bone tissue in the jaw, often due to bisphosphonate use or other medications. It can cause severe pain and requires prompt medical attention.
- Rare diagnoses
- Eagle Syndrome: This condition involves an elongated styloid process or calcified stylohyoid ligament, which can cause facial and jaw pain. It is relatively rare and may require specialized imaging to diagnose.
- Sphenoid Sinusitis: Inflammation or infection of the sphenoid sinus can cause pain in the face, including the cheeks and jaw. It is a rare condition that may require imaging studies to diagnose.
- Multiple Sclerosis: In some cases, multiple sclerosis can cause facial pain, including pain in the cheeks and jaw, due to demyelination of the trigeminal nerve. However, this would typically be accompanied by other neurological symptoms.