Orofacial Pain

Abstract

Background Dentistry assumed the primary role for treating patients with pain in the region of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) based upon an article published in 1934 by Dr. James Costen, an otolaryngologist. After presenting eleven anecdotal case reports, Costen theorized that “abnormal pressure” on the TMJ due to occlusal deficiencies from ill-fitting dentures was a frequent cause of periauricular pain and headache. Despite its limitations, the Costen paper was widely accepted and prompted the dental and medical professions to apply traditional dental principles to the diagnosis and management of periauricular pain and headache.