Differential Diagnosis for Jaw Pain
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder: This is the most common cause of jaw pain, often related to muscle tension, teeth grinding, or misalignment of the jaw.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Dental Problems (e.g., tooth abscess, gum disease): These can cause localized pain that may radiate to the jaw.
- Sinusitis: Inflammation of the sinuses can cause pain that is referred to the jaw.
- Tension Headache: Muscle tension in the face and neck can lead to jaw pain.
- Bruxism: Grinding or clenching of the teeth, often during sleep, can lead to jaw pain and TMJ issues.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Acute Angle Closure Glaucoma: Although rare, this condition can cause severe eye pain that may be referred to the jaw, and it requires immediate medical attention.
- Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack): In some cases, especially in women, heart attacks can present with jaw pain as a primary symptom.
- Trigeminal Neuralgia: A chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, which can cause intense pain in the face, including the jaw.
- Rare diagnoses
- Jaw Tumors (e.g., osteosarcoma, chondrosarcoma): These are rare but can cause jaw pain and swelling.
- Sialadenitis (inflammation of the salivary glands): This can cause pain in the jaw area, especially if the parotid gland is involved.
- Eagle Syndrome (elongated styloid process): A rare condition where an abnormally long styloid process can cause pain in the jaw and face.