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Nonodontogenic Odontalgia Referred from the Temporal Tendon: A Case Report
Preston S Duffin1, Alexander Smith2, James M Hawkins2
1Air Force Postgraduate Dental School, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences Postgraduate Dental College, San Antonio, Texas.
Introduction:
Temporal tendonitis (TT) is an orofacial pain disorder that can refer pain to the maxillary and mandibular molars, temporomandibular joint, masticatory muscles, eye, or ear. Patients often present to a dentist or physician with complaints reflecting these referral patterns, yet many healthcare providers are unfamiliar with TT because of the scarcity of literature published on this clinical entity. This may lead to diagnostic confusion, iatrogenic harm, and prolonged patient suffering.
Methods And Results:
This case report describes TT that presented as maxillary and mandibular posterior tooth pain, preauricular pain, and decreased mandibular range of motion. Patient history and examination were suggestive of TT. Local anesthetic injection adjacent to the tendon eliminated all pain complaints and improved range of motion. The patient was given education on the condition and self-care instructions. At 1-week follow-up, the patient reported resolution of her pain complaint.
Conclusions:
As healthcare providers familiarize themselves with appropriate diagnostic and treatment options for TT, delayed or unnecessary care can be avoided, and proper management strategies can be implemented.
