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Pseudo-dental pain and sensitivity to percussion
General Dentistry
|May 15, 2002
Summary
Dental pain and sensitivity to percussion may stem from masticatory muscle trigger points, not just tooth issues. Myofascial pain syndrome should be considered in dental pain diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Pain Management
- Myology
Background:
- Dental pain and sensitivity to percussion are commonly attributed to pulpal inflammation or necrosis.
- This traditional diagnostic approach may overlook alternative pain sources.
Observation:
- Two case reports highlight a less recognized etiology for dental pain and percussion sensitivity.
- Symptoms were observed to be referred from trigger points within the masticatory muscles.
Findings:
- Pain and sensitivity to percussion in a tooth can originate from myofascial trigger points.
- This challenges the exclusive association of these symptoms with pulpal pathology.
Implications:
- Myofascial pain syndrome should be considered in the differential diagnosis of dental pain.
- Accurate diagnosis requires evaluating masticatory muscles alongside dental structures.
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