Atypical Facial Pain Syndromes
Facial Pain, when not attributable to muscle referral or TM dysfunction,
may well be initiated by a variety of local and/or central nerve irritations
or vascular events. From tic doulereux, to hard to identify tooth decay
and facial migraines, these syndromes generate confusingly similar chief
complaints.
Careful assessment, which includes a thorough history and examination,
x-rays, medication challenge and diagnostic anesthetic blockage, is a
prerequisite in distinguishing between a multitude of clinical entities.
Gaining widespread attention over the last several years is a condition
termed RSD, Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy. This condition, which often
produces burning pain and tissue-sensitivity, often follows traumatic
injury. Also commonly seen is a condition called atypical facial neuralgia,
which is frequently diagnosed in women.
Once a diagnosis is established, management of these conditions is typically
multidisciplinary in nature. Medical/dental management, in the form of
medications, nerve blocks, and surgery, are the accepted treatment protocol
at this time.
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