PRIMARY CAUSES OF TOOTHACHE AND THEIR DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS: A COMPREHENSIVE CLINICAL REVIEW

Authors

  • Abdulahadova Ruxshona Student of the 1st year, Faculty of Medicine Andijan Branch, Kokand University
  • Dehqonboyeva Dilnura Student of the 1st year, Faculty of Medicine Andijan Branch, Kokand University

Keywords:

Toothache, dental pain, pulpitis, differential diagnosis, dental caries, periodontal disease, referred pain, periapical pathology, temporomandibular disorders, oral diagnosis

Abstract

Toothache is one of the most common complaints in dental and medical practice and represents a significant cause of discomfort, reduced quality of life, and healthcare utilization. Despite its frequent occurrence, tooth pain is not a single disease entity but a symptom arising from a wide range of odontogenic and non-odontogenic conditions. Accurate identification of the underlying cause is essential for effective management, prevention of complications, and avoidance of unnecessary or inappropriate treatment. This article aims to provide a comprehensive review of the main causes of toothache and to discuss the principles of differential diagnosis relevant to clinical practice. The review highlights common odontogenic causes such as dental caries, pulpitis, periapical pathology, periodontal disease, cracked tooth syndrome, and pericoronitis, as well as non-odontogenic sources including temporomandibular joint disorders, sinusitis, neuropathic pain, and referred pain from systemic conditions. Emphasis is placed on the clinical characteristics of pain—such as onset, duration, intensity, provoking and relieving factors—and their diagnostic significance. Diagnostic tools including patient history, clinical examination, pulp vitality tests, percussion, palpation, and radiographic imaging are discussed as integral components of the diagnostic process.

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Published

2026-01-11

How to Cite

Abdulahadova Ruxshona, & Dehqonboyeva Dilnura. (2026). PRIMARY CAUSES OF TOOTHACHE AND THEIR DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS: A COMPREHENSIVE CLINICAL REVIEW. Journal of Applied Science and Social Science, 16(01), 161–166. Retrieved from https://www.internationaljournal.co.in/index.php/jasass/article/view/2930

Issue

Vol. 16 No. 01 (2026): Volume 16 Issue 01

Section

Articles

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