Phantom Tooth Syndrome

Phantom Tooth Syndrome

Signs and Symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment

Diagnosis

Like all orofacial pain disorders, phantom tooth syndrome can be very frustrating for patients and difficult to diagnose because it often does not cause any clinical abnormalities and it is hard to determine where the pain is coming from. Patients may visit many doctors and have a variety of tests, which are all negative. In the past, orofacial pain disorders were considered a psychological, rather than physical condition. However, research has shown that they are significant medical conditions that can be treated effectively when properly diagnosed.

In making a diagnosis of phantom tooth syndrome, your doctor will start by conducting a thorough clinical examination. He or she also will ask about any previous dental procedures that may have caused the condition, as well symptoms you may be experiencing. This information helps to rule out other conditions that cause facial pain, such as diseases of the teeth, gums or jaw.

Imagining tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computerized tomography (CT) scans of the brain, may be conducted.

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) – An MRI of the head is a non-invasive procedure that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to construct clear, detailed pictures of brain tissues.
• Computed Tomography (CT) – Also known as a CT scan, this test is a method of body imaging in which a thin X-ray beam rotates around the patient. A computer then analyzes the data to construct a cross-sectional image. These images can be stored, viewed on a monitor or printed on film.

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.
Last updated May 23, 2007