Are glia targets for neuropathic orofacial pain therapy?

Abstract

Posttraumatic trigeminal neuropathy occurs as a consequence of an injury to the peripheral branches of the trigeminal nerve. Examples include neuronal trauma during placement of dental implants, endodontia, and extractions. Dental procedures such as these, with the potential to cause trauma to the trigeminal system resulting in anesthesia and neuropathic pain, are performed daily throughout the world.1 The prevalence of neuropathic pain after dental procedures—for example, postendodontic pain lasting more than 6 months—is reported in 3.4 % of patients,2 whereas estimates of postdental implant neuropathy range from 1% through 8% of patients with alteration of sensation, and the estimates of chronic pain are 20%.