Differential diagnosis of orofacial pain (part 4)

- The mechanisms responsible for pain referral in the orofacial structures.
- Recognition and differentiation of orofacial pain disorders that may clinically present as toothache.
- Differentiation of  toothache of non-odontogenic from true odontogenic toothache.
- Seven different types of non-odontogenic toothaches and their management considerations.

Differential diagnosis of orofacial pain is an extremely challenging aspect of the dental practice. The complexity of neural network involving the craniocervical region establishes an environment for much diagnostic confusion. Many conditions exist which may mimic odontogenic or masticatory pain. Appropriate treatment and/or referral are predicated upon accurate identification of these diseases, syndromes, and clinical conditions. This presentation will provide a review of current basic concepts of pain mechanisms, pathways, and referral pattern in the head and neck. The clinical characteristics of 7 different non-odontogenic toothaches will be presented.