Differential Diagnosis for Jaw Pain

• Single most likely diagnosis
  • Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder: This is the most common cause of jaw pain, often related to muscle tension, teeth grinding, or misalignment of the jaw.
• Other Likely diagnoses
  • Dental Problems (e.g., tooth abscess, gum disease): These can cause significant jaw pain due to infection or inflammation.
  • Bruxism: Grinding or clenching of the teeth can lead to jaw pain and discomfort.
  • Sinusitis: Inflammation of the sinuses can radiate pain to the jaw area.
  • Tension Headache: Muscle tension in the face and neck can cause jaw pain.
• Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
  • Acute Angle Closure Glaucoma: Although rare, this condition can cause severe eye pain that may radiate to the jaw and is an ocular emergency.
  • Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack): In some cases, cardiac ischemia can present with jaw pain, especially in women, and is a medical emergency.
  • Trigeminal Neuralgia: A chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, causing intense shock-like or stabbing pain in parts of the face, including the jaw.
• Rare diagnoses
  • Osteonecrosis of the Jaw: A rare condition often associated with long-term bisphosphonate use, characterized by death of jawbone tissue.
  • Jaw Tumors (e.g., osteosarcoma, chondrosarcoma): Although rare, these can cause jaw pain and should be considered in the differential diagnosis, especially with persistent or worsening symptoms.
  • Eagle Syndrome: A rare condition where an elongated styloid process or calcified stylohyoid ligament causes pain in the jaw and face.