Multidisciplinary patient care in preventive dentistry: idiopathic dental pain reconsidered

Abstract

Pain is a complex phenomenon which challenges healthcare providers to develop multidisciplinary diagnostic and treatment competencies. This paper reviews literature on idiopathic odontalgia and tooth hypersensitivity without apparent cause, and considers the role bioelectric mechanisms may play in the onset and treatment of these moderately common disorders. The hypothesis considers that such pain may be associated with health disturbances in areas remote from the teeth and periodontium. A multidisciplinary approach to preventive dental health is discussed along with factors which may impact the outcome in the treatment of dental pain.