How is atypical facial pain diagnosed?

How is atypical facial pain diagnosed?

Atypical facial pain is difficult to diagnose. The symptoms are similar to those of many other facial pain syndromes. Your healthcare provider will do a physical exam, review your medical history and evaluate your symptoms.

Your healthcare provider may perform tests to rule out other conditions that could make your face hurt. They call this a differential diagnosis.

Tests may include:

• Dental exams: A dentist carefully examines your teeth, jaws and the inside of your mouth. They may do dental X-rays to check for cavities, infections, impacted molars or other dental problems.
• Imaging exams: An MRI or CT scan can detect problems in your head, neck or face. Your healthcare provider may do these tests to rule out the possibility of a facial fracture, tumor or blood vessel problem.
• Neurological tests: Your healthcare provider uses neurological testing to check the nerves in your face. They may ask you to blink and move your eyes in different directions. They check your ability to smile, frown and move your lips. They may also touch different areas of your face to check for pain or numbness.
• Psychological tests: Your healthcare provider may ask questions about your mood, behavior and interactions with other people. Problems like depression, stress or anxiety may trigger pain or make it worse.