Beyond the Tooth: Identifying and Managing Neuropathic Pain in Dental Practice

Beyond the Tooth: Identifying and Managing Neuropathic Pain in Dental Practice is organized by American Association of Women Dentists (AAWD) and will be held on Oct 15, 2026.

Description:
Neuropathic orofacial pain conditions are frequently mistaken for dental disease, leading to delayed diagnosis, unnecessary procedures, and prolonged patient discomfort. This webinar will help dental professionals recognize and manage common neuropathic pain disorders encountered in practice, including trigeminal neuralgia, painful post-traumatic trigeminal neuropathy (PTTN), and burning mouth syndrome. Participants will learn how to distinguish neuropathic pain from odontogenic pain using symptom patterns, identify clinical red flags that warrant further evaluation, and apply evidence-based approaches for diagnosis and referral. Emphasis will be placed on interdisciplinary collaboration and patient-centered care to improve outcomes for individuals experiencing complex orofacial pain conditions. 

Learning Objectives:

• Distinguish neuropathic pain from odontogenic pain based on symptom patterns and clinical presentation.
• Recognize key clinical red flags and avoid unnecessary dental procedures.
• Apply evidence-based protocols for the diagnosis, management, and referral of patients with neuropathic orofacial pain.
• Enhance patient outcomes through interdisciplinary collaboration and comprehensive care planning.