Non-odontogenic toothache

Toothache is a common complaint in the dental office. Most toothaches have their origin in the pulpal tissues of periodontal structures. These odontogenic pains are managed well and predictably by dental therapies. Non-odontogenic toothaches are often difficult to identify and can challenge the diagnostic ability of the clinician. The most important step toward proper management of toothache is to be suspicious that the pain may not be of dental origin. The cardinal warning symptoms of non-odontogenic toothache are as follow: A. Spontaneous multiple toothaches. B. Inadequate local dental cause for the pain. C. Stimulating, burning, non-pulsatile toothaches. D. Constant, unremitting, non-variable toothaches. E. Persistent, recurrent toothaches. F. Local anesthetic blocking of the offending tooth does not eliminate the pain. G. Failure of the toothache to respond to reasonable dental therapy.