Diagnosis of selected dental conditions with similar pain characteristics: Do we need to redefine our terminology? A personal view

Title: Diagnosis of selected dental conditions with similar pain characteristics: Do we need to redefine our terminology? A personal view

Abstract:

The aim of this presentation is to highlight the problems that clinicians may have in diagnosing dental conditions, particularly those conditions with similar pain symptoms. One of the problems confronting the clinician when attempting to diagnose different dental conditions is that both the terminology and definitions for the conditions are often confusing. From a diagnostic perspective precise terminology and definitions are important if we are to be consistent with our diagnosis in resolving our patients’ dental pain. To my understanding this is not simply a question of semantics but of consistency when using terminology/definitions, and hopefully the recommendations proposed in the presentation will enable clinicians to universally describe dental conditions and subsequently proscribe the appropriate treatment. It is evident however, that in some disciplines (e.g. oral medicine) there is still some disagreement and confusion in the current classification, and this will be addressed in the presentation. Other dental conditions where the pain symptoms are similar and where confusion in terminology may exist will also be addressed and recommendations proposed to clarify any potential problems when attempting to provide a definitive diagnosis for the patient’s complaint.

Biography:

David Geoffrey Gillam graduated from Edinburgh Dental School in 1977 and has been actively involved in Dentistry for over 45 years. He has worked in both clinical practice and university dental hospitals, as well as in industry (1998-2001), initially with SmithKline Beecham and later with Block Drug Company. From 2003 to 2008, he worked with a Clinical Research Organization as a Research Dentist. He also served as a full-time Clinical Reader (Associate Professor) in Translational Research related to Dentistry at Bart’s and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, QMUL in London (2009-2022). Currently, David is a part-time Professor at QMUL, although he no longer practices dentistry. His primary research interest lies in Periodontology, particularly the management of dentine hypersensitivity, and he has also developed an interest in the development of dental materials for both professional and consumer use. David has published over 100 papers on various dental topics and has contributed to several books, both as an Editor and as a chapter contributor.