Differential Diagnosis for Left Jaw Pain
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder: This is a common condition that affects the joint connecting the jawbone to the skull, often causing pain in the jaw, face, and surrounding areas. The pain can be unilateral, making it a likely cause for left jaw pain.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Dental problems (e.g., toothache, abscess, or impacted tooth): Issues with the teeth or gums can radiate pain to the jaw area, making dental problems a plausible cause for left jaw pain.
- Trigeminal neuralgia: This condition involves sudden, severe facial pain, typically on one side of the face, which could include the jaw area.
- Myofascial pain syndrome: This condition involves pain and inflammation in the muscles and surrounding connective tissue, which can occur in the jaw muscles.
- Do Not Miss diagnoses
- Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) or myocardial infarction (MI): Although less common, jaw pain can be a referred symptom of a heart attack, especially in women. It is crucial to consider this possibility to avoid missing a potentially life-threatening condition.
- Giant cell arteritis: This condition involves inflammation of the blood vessels and can cause jaw pain, especially when chewing. It is essential to recognize this condition to initiate prompt treatment and prevent complications.
- Rare diagnoses
- Osteonecrosis of the jaw: A rare condition characterized by the death of jawbone tissue, often associated with bisphosphonate use or radiation therapy.
- Jaw tumors (e.g., osteosarcoma or chondrosarcoma): Although rare, tumors in the jaw can cause pain and should be considered in the differential diagnosis, especially if other symptoms like swelling or masses are present.
- Eagle syndrome: A rare condition characterized by an elongated styloid process or calcified stylohyoid ligament, which can cause jaw pain, especially when swallowing or turning the head.