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Introduction to acupuncture in dentistry.
1Weston Park Hospital, Sheffield.
British Dental Journal
|October 6, 2000
Summary
Acupuncture can supplement dental treatments, particularly for temporomandibular dysfunction and facial pain, with documented evidence. While helpful for post-operative pain, its use as sole operative analgesia requires further investigation.
Area of Science:
- Integrative Medicine
- Dental Science
- Neurophysiology
Background:
- Acupuncture is an ancient practice with emerging applications in modern healthcare.
- Research is exploring acupuncture's role in various medical and dental fields.
- Understanding its neurophysiological basis is key to its clinical application.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce the practical application of acupuncture in dentistry.
- To review current research on acupuncture's efficacy in dental settings.
- To discuss the potential benefits and limitations of acupuncture in dental care.
Main Methods:
- Review of current scientific literature on acupuncture in dentistry.
- Analysis of randomized controlled trials for temporomandibular dysfunction and facial pain.
- Discussion of neurophysiological mechanisms underlying acupuncture's effects.
Main Results:
- Acupuncture is well-supported by research for treating temporomandibular dysfunction syndrome and facial pain.
- Evidence suggests acupuncture can aid in managing post-operative pain.
- Its efficacy as a sole analgesic for operative dental procedures remains uncertain.
Conclusions:
- Acupuncture can serve as a valuable adjunct to conventional dental treatments.
- Modern neurophysiology provides explanations for acupuncture's therapeutic effects.
- Dentists can effectively utilize acupuncture with minimal training.