Differential Diagnosis for Inability to Show Bottom Teeth
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder: This condition can cause pain and stiffness in the jaw, leading to difficulty in moving the jaw and showing the bottom teeth. The TMJ is a complex joint that allows for movement of the jaw, and disorders of this joint are common.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Dental issues (e.g., overbite, underbite, or teeth misalignment): Abnormal alignment of the teeth can make it difficult to show the bottom teeth.
- Gingivitis or periodontitis: Inflammation or infection of the gums can cause pain and discomfort, leading to difficulty in showing the bottom teeth.
- Oral trauma or injury: A blow to the jaw or face can cause swelling, pain, or bruising, making it hard to move the jaw and show the bottom teeth.
- Do Not Miss diagnoses
- Oral cancer: Although rare, oral cancer can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the jaw, making it essential to rule out this diagnosis.
- Trigeminal neuralgia: A condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, causing severe pain in the face and jaw, which can lead to difficulty showing the bottom teeth.
- Tetanus infection: A bacterial infection that can cause muscle stiffness and rigidity, including the jaw muscles, leading to an inability to show the bottom teeth.
- Rare diagnoses
- Eagle syndrome: A rare condition where the styloid process (a bone in the throat) is elongated, causing pain and stiffness in the jaw and face.
- Sjögren's syndrome: An autoimmune disorder that can cause dry mouth and inflammation in the salivary glands, leading to difficulty moving the jaw and showing the bottom teeth.
- Myasthenia gravis: A rare neuromuscular disorder that can cause muscle weakness, including the muscles used for jaw movement.