Trigeminal neuralgia: This is the most likely diagnosis due to the characteristic symptoms of sudden, severe, and stabbing pain in the face, typically triggered by light touch or other innocuous stimuli, and often affecting one or more branches of the trigeminal nerve.

Dental issues (e.g., tooth abscess, cracked tooth): Dental problems can cause facial pain that may mimic trigeminal neuralgia, especially if the pain is localized to a specific area.
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder: TMJ disorders can cause facial pain, jaw pain, and clicking or locking of the jaw, which may be confused with trigeminal neuralgia.
Cluster headaches: While typically more severe and accompanied by other symptoms like nasal congestion and eye watering, cluster headaches can cause severe facial pain that might be considered in the differential.
Sinusitis: Inflammation of the sinuses can cause facial pain, especially in the cheeks and forehead, which might be mistaken for trigeminal neuralgia.

Multiple Sclerosis: Trigeminal neuralgia can be a presenting symptom of multiple sclerosis, an autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system. Missing this diagnosis could lead to delayed treatment and worsening of the disease.
Brain Tumors: Tumors, such as acoustic neuromas or meningiomas, can compress the trigeminal nerve, causing symptoms of trigeminal neuralgia. Failing to diagnose a brain tumor could have severe consequences, including increased intracranial pressure and neurological deficits.
Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): While less common, facial pain can be a symptom of a stroke or TIA, especially if accompanied by other neurological deficits. Prompt recognition is crucial for timely intervention.

Glossopharyngeal Neuralgia: This rare condition involves the glossopharyngeal nerve and can cause severe pain in the throat, ear, or tongue, which might be considered in the differential diagnosis of trigeminal neuralgia, especially if the pain pattern is atypical.
Occipital Neuralgia: Involving the occipital nerves, this condition can cause pain in the back of the head or neck, which, although distinct, might occasionally be confused with trigeminal neuralgia if the pain radiates to the face.
Raeder's Syndrome: A rare condition characterized by a combination of facial pain, miosis, and ptosis, which could be considered in the differential diagnosis if the patient presents with these additional symptoms.