Diagnostic Dilemma in Differentiating Odontogenic Pain and Non Odontogenic Pain: A Case Series

Abstract

Pain is one of the most common reasons why patients seek medical attention. When experiencing discomfort in the orofacial region, a dentist is usually the first medical professional consulted. While odontogenic factors are the most common causes of acute pain in the maxillofacial region, it can also be non odontogenic, making it challenging to differentiate between the two. However, with a thorough examination, taking a complete history, and ordering necessary diagnostic tests, a dentist can make an accurate diagnosis and evaluate the entire stomatognathic system and other relevant anatomical regions. Misdiagnosis can lead to unnecessary dental procedures and cause trauma to the patients. Case 1 (50-year-old female) and case 3 (63-year-old female) were finally diagnosed as Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN), which were initially misdiagnosed as odontogenic pain and were treated with unnecessary irreversible dental treatments like Randomised Controlled Clinical Trials (RCT). Case 2 ( 28-year-old female) was eventually diagnosed as a case of myofascial pain with loss of muscle tone, for which the patient required palliative physical therapy. Instead, the splint, which was worn day and night by the patient, and soft diet resulted in muscle atrophy. The present case series emphasises the importance of accurate diagnosis to prevent irreversible dental treatment and protect patients from harm.