Phantom bite syndrome: Revelation from clinically focused review

Area of Science:

• Dental Science
• Psychiatry
• Psychology

Background:

• Phantom bite syndrome (PBS), or occlusal dysesthesia, is a rare condition characterized by a persistent, unverifiable belief of occlusal discrepancies.
• This erroneous belief can lead to extensive dental treatment seeking, negatively impacting patients' quality of life, careers, and finances.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the existing literature on phantom bite syndrome.
• To emphasize the importance of increased awareness among dental professionals regarding PBS.
• To propose a comprehensive, multidisciplinary treatment approach for patients with PBS.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of published cases and studies on phantom bite syndrome.
• Analysis of the consistent patterns and clinical presentation of PBS.
• Discussion of current treatment limitations and proposed management strategies.

Main Results:

• Despite numerous reported cases since 1976, original research on PBS remains limited.
• A consistent pattern of PBS presentation is recognized, necessitating greater clinician awareness.
• Current treatment is hampered by incomplete understanding of the syndrome's etiology.

Conclusions:

• Enhanced awareness and recognition of PBS among dental professionals are critical.
• A comprehensive management strategy involving dentists, psychiatrists, and psychotherapists is recommended.
• Further research is needed to fully elucidate the etiology and optimize treatment for phantom bite syndrome.