SPECIALIZED ORAL PATHOLOGY IN DALLAS, TX
Understanding Atypical Facial Pain
Facial and oral pain don’t always follow a predictable pattern. For some patients, the discomfort is persistent, vague, or even difficult to localize.
Understandably, pain can be very frustrating for patients. Their discomfort is real and can even be severe. At the Center for Oral Pathology, our role is to support providers in ruling out tissue-based causes of pain. This helps ensure that patients receive an accurate diagnosis and the appropriate referral for their ongoing care needs. We also provide treatment services to meet the needs of patients.
What Is Atypical Facial Pain?
Atypical facial pain is a diagnosis of exclusion, meaning it is considered when other possible conditions have been ruled out. Those suffering from atypical facial pain often describe the discomfort they are experiencing as dull, aching, burning, or pressure-like. Unlike trigeminal neuralgia, which produces sharp, electric shock–like attacks, atypical facial pain tends to be more constant and unpredictable.
Atypical facial pain may be localized to one area or can shift from place to place. This may include the cheek, jaw, or oral cavity and worsen with stress or fatigue.
Why Accurate Evaluation Matters
When a patient experiences chronic facial pain, it is the job of the provider to determine whether the source of the pain is a lesion, an inflammatory process, or a nerve-related disorder. Accurate diagnosis is extremely important because:
- It prevents patients from undergoing unnecessary dental or surgical treatments.
- It ensures that serious conditions, such as precancerous lesions, infections, or autoimmune diseases, are not overlooked.
- It guides providers in referring patients to specialists in neurology, pain management, or psychiatry when appropriate.
- It provides reassurance for patients who may have been told “nothing is wrong” despite them experiencing ongoing symptoms.
The Diagnostic Process
The diagnostic process can be quite in-depth and may involve multiple providers. The process often includes:
- Cataloging a detailed history of the condition and providing a clinical examination that focuses on the nature, duration, and triggers of the pain.
- Imaging studies, such as MRI or CT scans, when structural problems need to be excluded.
- Biopsy and pathology evaluation if suspicious oral lesions are present.
- Neurologic assessment if the pain doesn’t appear to be linked to visible oral or dental issues.
Atypical facial pain is a diagnosis of exclusion, and reaching it requires patience and often collaboration between multiple providers.
Treatment and Management
Treatment for atypical facial pain includes diagnosis and management of symptoms. Medications may be prescribed to help with the condition. Patients may also benefit from physical therapy, stress management, and/or counseling (to help process the pain).
For some patients, long-term management is necessary. Adjustments are made over time based on how patients respond to therapy.
The Role of the Oral Pathologist
At the Center for Oral Pathology, we play an important role in the evaluation and management of atypical facial pain.
By confirming or ruling out tissue disease, we can focus on neuropathic and pain-management strategies with confidence.
Partnering for Comprehensive Care
At the Center for Oral Pathology, we partner with providers to ensure that when lesions are present, they are accurately evaluated, and when they are absent, patients are directed toward effective pain management.
If you encounter a patient with persistent, unexplained oral or facial pain consider referral to our office for further evaluation.
If you are a patient experiencing atypical facial pain, reach out today for diagnosis and treatment.
Contact our office today to learn more about our services.
Schedule Your Oral Pathology Exam Today
At The Center for Oral Pathology, 4514 Cole Avenue, Suite 930, in Dallas, Texas, 75205, our team of specialists takes your oral health seriously. Scheduling an appointment for an oral pathology examination or an oral biopsy can also actively improve your overall health. In addition to embracing the importance of your overall oral health, we also understand the value of your time, which is why we are focused on making your visit to our clinic as efficient as possible.
If you would like to learn more about your options regarding atypical facial pain, give us a call today at 855-ORAL-PAT(H) or 855-672-5728 with any questions and to get your examination on the calendar. We look forward to serving you and contributing to improving your quality of life.