Trigeminal neuralgia and associated unwarranted dental treatment

Abstract

AbstractAimThis study aimed to note the prevalence of trigeminal neuralgia (TN) in patients reporting to a tertiary care centre along with the unwarranted dental treatment they had received due to ignorance about the same.MethodologyAll patients reporting to the Dentistry Out Patient Department (OPD) over 1 year were screened for TN and their demographics, side and site of neuralgia along with any dental treatment received in relation to the complaint site were noted and compared.ResultsOut of 14,952 OPD patients, the prevalence of TN was 0.30% (45) with a female to male ratio of 3:2. It was more common on the right side and affected the mandibular division the most. More than 80% of patients underwent at least one unnecessary dental procedure before being diagnosed with TN, this was more common in the rural population as compared to city dwellers.ConclusionTo decrease the number of unwarranted dental procedures being done on TN patients, thorough knowledge of TN amongst both the public and dentists is essential to reduce patient agony, decrease the delay in diagnosis, facilitate early resolution of symptoms and eventually disease and improve the patient's quality of life. Timely neurology referral is the key to better management and reduces unnecessary dental procedures undergone by patients unknowingly and eventually decreases the emotional and economic burden on them.