Diagnostic Perils in Jaw Pain

Chronic pain in the orofacial region is a common complaint faced by clinicians. It is important for the dentists to have a thorough knowledge of various causes of jaw pain. Most common type reported is toothache. Since toothache is so common, it is important to determine if pain is from odontogenic or nonodontogenic origin. The need for careful diagnosis before undertaking any invasive treatment is the key to prevent misdiagnosis and mismanagement in patients with chronic orofacial pain. Emphasis in this article is on the differential diagnosis of jaw pain originating from muscular, neuropathic, cardiac, sinus and psychogenic origin.