Differential Diagnosis for Tooth Ache
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Dental Caries: This is the most common cause of toothache, resulting from the bacterial breakdown of tooth enamel, leading to cavities and potentially exposing the dentin or pulp.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Pulpitis: Inflammation of the dental pulp, which can be reversible or irreversible, often caused by deep caries, trauma, or extensive restorations.
- Gingivitis or Periodontitis: Inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) or the supporting structures of the teeth (periodontitis), which can cause pain, especially if there is an acute exacerbation or abscess formation.
- Dental Abscess: A localized collection of pus in the tissues surrounding the teeth, often resulting from a bacterial infection of the dental pulp or periodontal tissues.
- Tooth Fracture: A crack or break in the tooth, which can expose the pulp or dentin, leading to pain.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Acute Apical Periodontitis: An inflammatory condition of the periodontal ligament surrounding the root of a tooth, often caused by bacterial invasion of the pulp, which can lead to severe pain and potentially more serious complications if not addressed.
- Cellulitis or Ludwig's Angina: Severe infections of the soft tissues of the face and neck, which can be life-threatening if not promptly treated with antibiotics and supportive care.
- Trigeminal Neuralgia: A chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, which can cause intense, shock-like or stabbing pain in parts of the face, including the teeth.
Rare Diagnoses
- Eagle Syndrome: A condition caused by an elongated or calcified styloid process, which can irritate nearby tissues and cause facial and dental pain.
- Sinusitis: Inflammation or infection of the sinuses, which can refer pain to the upper teeth due to the proximity of the maxillary sinuses to the roots of these teeth.
- Cardiac Issues (e.g., Angina or Myocardial Infarction): Though rare, cardiac conditions can sometimes manifest as tooth or jaw pain, especially if the pain is referred from the heart via shared nerve pathways.