Association Between Trigeminal Neuralgia And Unnecessary Tooth Extraction

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Dentistry
• Pain Management

Background:

• Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is characterized by severe, shock-like facial pain, often stemming from vascular compression of the trigeminal nerve.
• Despite its long-known existence, the exact pathogenesis of TN remains unclear, leading to diagnostic challenges.
• Patients frequently undergo unnecessary dental procedures without pain relief due to misdiagnosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between trigeminal neuralgia and prior unnecessary tooth extractions.
• To highlight diagnostic challenges faced by clinicians and dentists in managing TN patients.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study was conducted from January 2017 to July 2019.
• Fifty-three patients diagnosed with trigeminal neuralgia were evaluated through history, clinical examination, and local anesthetic blocks.
• Data on previous dental procedures, including tooth extractions, were collected.

Main Results:

• Out of 53 TN patients, 25 (47.1%) reported unnecessary tooth extractions before their TN diagnosis.
• The maxillary first premolar was the most frequently extracted tooth in these cases.
• The study included a higher proportion of females (58.5%) than males (41.5%), with a mean age of 53.90 years.

Conclusions:

• Trigeminal neuralgia can mimic dental pain, leading to misdiagnosis and inappropriate dental interventions.
• Thorough patient evaluation is essential to differentiate TN from dental pain and avoid unnecessary tooth extractions.
• Early and accurate diagnosis of TN is critical for effective management and patient well-being.