Differential Diagnosis for Jaw Swelling
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Dental Abscess: This is often the most common cause of jaw swelling due to bacterial infection of a tooth, leading to a collection of pus that can cause swelling and pain in the jaw area.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Cellulitis: A bacterial infection of the skin and tissues under the skin, which can cause swelling, redness, and pain in the jaw area.
- Dental Cyst or Tumor: Benign or malignant growths in the jaw can cause swelling, and while less common than infections, they are still relatively likely causes.
- Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder: While not typically causing significant swelling, severe cases of TMJ disorders can lead to inflammation and swelling in the jaw area.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Ludwig's Angina: A severe infection of the tissues in the neck, which can cause significant swelling and can lead to airway obstruction if not promptly treated.
- Parotid Gland Infection or Tumor: Infections or tumors of the parotid gland can cause swelling in the jaw area and have the potential for serious complications if not addressed.
- Osteomyelitis of the Jaw: A bone infection that can cause swelling, pain, and potentially serious complications, including bone destruction.
Rare Diagnoses
- Sarcoidosis: A condition that can cause inflammation and swelling in various parts of the body, including the jaw, though it is a rare cause of jaw swelling.
- Gorlin Syndrome (Nevoid Basal Cell Carcinoma Syndrome): A rare genetic disorder that can cause multiple jaw cysts, leading to swelling.
- Cherubism: A rare genetic disorder that causes prominence in the lower portion of the face due to bilateral enlargement of the jaw bones, which can be mistaken for swelling.