Differential Diagnosis for Crown Flare Up
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Pulpal inflammation or pulpitis: This is the most common cause of crown flare-ups, often resulting from deep decay, trauma, or procedural errors during dental work, leading to inflammation of the dental pulp.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Cracked tooth syndrome: A crack in the tooth can cause intermittent pain and may lead to a flare-up if the crack propagates or if the tooth becomes infected.
- Periapical cyst or granuloma: These are formations at the apex of a tooth's root, often as a result of chronic infection, which can cause pain and swelling.
- Gingival recession or periodontal disease: While not directly causing a flare-up, significant gum recession can expose roots, leading to sensitivity, or periodontal disease can cause pain and swelling in the affected area.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Abscess or cellulitis: A dental abscess or spreading cellulitis can lead to severe infection, potentially life-threatening if not promptly treated, especially if it spreads to other parts of the face or neck.
- Osteomyelitis: An infection of the bone, which can occur as a complication of dental infections, requiring immediate medical attention.
- Rare diagnoses
- Neoplasm (benign or malignant): Although rare, tumors can occur in the jaw and cause symptoms similar to a crown flare-up, including pain and swelling.
- Eruption cyst or pericoronal abscess: Associated with the eruption of teeth, especially wisdom teeth, these can cause localized pain and swelling.
- Maxillary sinusitis: Infection or inflammation of the maxillary sinus can refer pain to the upper teeth, mimicking a crown flare-up, especially if the roots of the upper teeth are close to or projecting into the sinus.