Differential Diagnosis for Lower Left Tooth Pain
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Dental Caries or Tooth Decay: The patient's symptoms of tooth pain, sensitivity to hot and cold, and pain while chewing are classic signs of a dental cavity. The acute onset of symptoms suggests a possible progression of the decay, exposing the dental pulp.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Pulpitis: Inflammation of the dental pulp can cause sensitivity to temperature changes and pain during chewing. This condition can be reversible or irreversible, depending on the severity.
- Gingivitis or Periodontitis: Inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) or infection of the gums and bone (periodontitis) can cause pain, especially when chewing, and sensitivity due to exposed roots.
- Cracked Tooth Syndrome: A crack in the tooth can cause pain when chewing and sensitivity to temperature changes, as the crack allows bacteria to penetrate and irritate the pulp.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Abscess or Dental Infection: Although less likely, an abscess or severe dental infection can lead to serious complications, such as spreading infection to other parts of the face or neck, and potentially life-threatening conditions like Ludwig's angina.
- Trigeminal Neuralgia: A condition characterized by sudden, severe, shock-like pain around the eyes, lips, or nose, mainly due to abnormal blood vessels compressing the trigeminal nerve. Dental issues can sometimes trigger or mimic this condition.
Rare Diagnoses
- Eagle Syndrome: An elongated styloid process or calcified stylohyoid ligament can cause dental pain, especially in the lower teeth, due to the proximity of the styloid process to the trigeminal nerve and dental structures.
- Sinusitis: In rare cases, sinus infections can refer pain to the lower teeth, especially if the infection involves the maxillary sinus, which is located close to the upper teeth but can radiate pain to the lower teeth in some instances.