Orofacial pain, 4th edition

  • R. de Leeuw
UK: Quintessence price £20.00; pp 318 ISBN 9780867154139 | ISBN: 978-0-8671-5413-9

This is the fourth edition of this text which aims to assist you in the assessment, diagnosis and management of orofacial pain. Orofacial pain can be complex and the dentist often has to consider a differential diagnosis. This book is produced by the American Academy of Orofacial Pain in order to help with such situations.

A large number of clinicians have contributed to the text which they note is often referred to as the 'AAOP Guidelines'. Their approach is systematic and structured. The book itself is divided into chapters which examine orofacial pain according to the cause. Intracranial disorders, headaches and temporomandibular disorders are considered, alongside neuropathies and intraoral pain. Also included is a chapter dedicated to pain of a cervical origin and a chapter which considers systemic factors which may account for orofacial symptoms. The final chapter details a useful account of behavioural considerations.

The latest edition of the text has been produced in order to expand on current evidence-based concepts. Evidence based literature is used throughout in order to provide you with scientifically sound treatment options. There is a long list of references at the end of most chapters, for those who want to look further into the literature.

The chapters which will probably be of interest to most readers include 'Intraoral Pain Disorders' and 'Temporomandibular Disorders'. The first of these chapters is useful in that it considers pain arising from the pulp and periodontium, as well as disorders of the soft tissues of the mouth. There are brief notes on ANUG and RAS, viral infections, candidosis and cancer. Burning mouth syndrome and geographic tongue are also mentioned. The temporomandibular disorders chapter starts by presenting the anatomy of the masticatory system prior to discussing the various aetiological factors which may contribute to pain. Clinicians who sometimes find the classification of various disc disorders a little confusing will be relieved to know that there is a nice, concise summary of each. The chapter concludes with a lengthy discussion of the various management options available for patients which can be provided by general dental practitioners and specialists alike. The book should certainly provide the dentist with more confidence in diagnosing and treating a variety of these disorders before considering a specialist referral.

The text is a little monotonous at times and the book is probably most suitable for the qualified clinician rather than a student. It does not intend to comprehensively detail all aspects of orofacial pain – it would however be useful in helping you to assess, diagnose and manage orofacial pain conditions based on the latest scientific knowledge.