Neuromodulation in Odontogenic Pain: A Case Series

BACKGROUND: Teeth and other intraoral structures are the most frequent sources of orofacial pain. Pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) is a treatment where an intermittent electrical pulse is applied to a painful nerve. CASE REPORT: Twelve patients who reported odontogenic were enrolled. After a positive anesthetic block test at the affected nerve, a PRF procedure was performed. After the procedure, patients were asked to report the degree of tolerability of the procedure, and each patient was reevaluated after one and 6 months in terms of overall satisfaction, reduction of pain, and number of attacks. A total of 18 procedures were performed over 12 patients; 8 patients reported significant clinical improvement . Maximum and mean self-reported pain ratings decreased significantly at both the one- and 6-month follow-ups. CONCLUSION: The use of PRF in treating odontogenic pain appears to show promising results: it is feasible, safe, and associated with little discomfort for the patient. KEY WORDS: Odontogenic pain, neuromodulation, pulsed radiofrequency, interventional pain procedure