Neuropathic implications of prosthodontic treatment

Associated with prosthodontic procedures, there may be the development of a chronic pain state caused by injury to peripheral branches of the trigeminal nerve. Neuropathic pains have not been discussed in the prosthodontic literature and yet are becoming increasingly common, especially in relation to the placement of implant prostheses. This article reviews the pathophysiologic and clinical features associated with neuropathic pain after dental procedures (traumatic neuralgia). The prosthodontist should become aware of neuropathic pain as a possible complication of treatment and informed consent should be obtained before procedures are started that might damage nervous tissue.