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Chronic orofacial pain. A practical approach to differential diagnosis
1Center for TMJ Disorders and Orofacial Pain Management, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, New Jersey Dental School, Newark.
Dental Clinics of North America
|January 1, 1991
Summary
Diagnosing chronic orofacial pain is challenging. This study simplifies diagnosis by classifying pain into somatic, neurogenous, and psychogenic categories based on clinical features and affected tissues.
Area of Science:
- Orofacial Pain Management
- Clinical Diagnosis
Background:
- Chronic orofacial pain diagnosis presents significant challenges for clinicians.
- Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To simplify the diagnostic process for chronic orofacial pain.
- To propose a classification system for orofacial pain.
Main Methods:
- Classifying orofacial pain based on clinical characteristics into somatic, neurogenous, and psychogenic categories.
- Further classifying pain according to the affected tissue system.
- Emphasizing the importance of thorough patient history and physical examination.
Main Results:
- A proposed three-category classification system (somatic, neurogenous, psychogenic) for orofacial pain.
- Highlighting the necessity of considering local, systemic, and psychological factors.
- Underscoring the adage 'what you don't know, you don't diagnose' in orofacial pain.
Conclusions:
- The proposed classification aids in simplifying orofacial pain diagnosis.
- A comprehensive diagnostic approach integrating clinical characteristics, tissue systems, and etiological factors is essential.
- Accurate diagnosis relies on detailed history, physical examination, and awareness of diverse pain contributors.