The diagnosis of oral and facial pain is a specialized evaluation process to determine the exact cause of discomfort affecting your teeth, jaw, face, or surrounding structures. Because pain in these areas can stem from various sources, including nerve inflammation, cracked teeth, sinus pressure, or referred pain from other regions, an accurate diagnosis is crucial for treatment. At ReGen Endodontics, our endodontists specialize in uncovering the root cause of complex pain cases. Using state-of-the-art tools, such as CBCT imaging and microscopic evaluation, they deliver accurate and honest diagnoses and develop treatment plans tailored to your specific needs. Our goal is simple: relieve pain while preserving long-term oral health.
Diagnosing orofacial pain is of critical importance, as it can stem from a wide range of conditions including dental, musculoskeletal, neuropathic, and systemic disorders. Accurate diagnosis ensures that patients receive appropriate and timely treatment, preventing unnecessary interventions and prolonged discomfort. However, the diagnostic process can often be challenging due to the complex anatomy of the oral and facial regions and the overlapping nature of symptoms across different conditions. For instance, pain originating from a tooth may mimic temporomandibular joint disorder or neuropathic pain, making careful clinical evaluation, detailed patient history, and sometimes advanced imaging essential for reaching the correct conclusion.
Your visit begins with a detailed consultation, during which Drs. Alabbas or Sarah Hussain listen carefully to your symptoms and medical history. They’ll ask focused questions about your pain’s duration, intensity, triggers, and past dental treatments. A clinical exam follows, including evaluation of your teeth, gums, jaw joints, and muscles, to identify any obvious causes.
To gain a deeper understanding of your pain, we utilize CBCT for 3D imaging of your teeth, bone, TMJ, and surrounding anatomy. This allows us to detect infections, fractures, resorption, or sinus issues that aren’t visible in standard X-rays. We may also use pulp vitality testing, selective anesthesia, or thermal/electrical testing to evaluate nerve function.
Because oral and facial pain can have overlapping symptoms, our doctors use a differential diagnosis approach. This means systematically ruling out potential causes, such as cracked teeth, failed root canals, temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD), or referred pain from non-dental sources, to ensure we’re treating the actual problem and not just the symptoms.
Once the source is identified, we’ll sit down with you to explain the findings in clear terms. You’ll receive a personalized treatment plan that may involve endodontic care, referral to a specialist (such as a neurologist or ENT), or pain management recommendations.
Yes. Not all facial pain originates from dental sources. You may be experiencing referred pain from sinus infections, nerve disorders such as trigeminal neuralgia, or issues with your jaw joint (TMJ). We take a comprehensive diagnostic approach to ensure no potential cause is overlooked.
CBCT, or Cone-Beam Computed Tomography, provides a 3D view of your dental structures, bone, sinuses, and nerves. Unlike X-rays, it gives us detailed cross-sectional images, allowing us to detect root fractures, hidden infections, and sinus complications that may be contributing to your pain.
Sometimes. If the source of your pain is clearly identified and requires an endodontic procedure, like a root canal, we may be able to treat it the same day. In more complex cases, we may schedule treatment separately or refer you to a another specialist for further evaluation.
ReGen Endodontics is your trusted partner in uncovering the true source of complex oral and facial pain. With advanced imaging, board-certified expertise, and a compassionate, patient-first approach, Drs. Alabbas and Sarah Hussain provide answers when others can’t. Schedule a consultation for the diagnosis of oral & facial pain in Morrisville or Garner today.
Office Hours
Mon - Fri: 8:00am - 5:00pm
Sat: 9:00am - 2:00pm
