Methods: We undertook a prospective study of 248 consecutive patients (aged 26 to 88 years) hospitalized with confirmed cardiac ischemic period. Digital OPG radiographs were obtained from all the patients for radiographic examination of the jaws and dentition. Patients underwent clinical and radiographic examinations and symptoms were evaluated in details to determine the prevalence and distribution pattern of craniofacial pain of cardiac origin.
Results: Craniofacial pain was the sole symptom of cardiac ischemia in thirteen patients (5.2%); two of them developed acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Pain in the craniofacial region, chest, shoulder and arm was experienced by 72 patients. The most frequently affected region was the left mandible. In the absence of chest pain, patients most frequently experienced pain in craniofacial structures. Incidence of craniofacial pain was significantly higher in women than in men (P = .024).
Conclusions: Cardiac pain commonly radiate to the craniofacial structures. Pain of cardiac origin usually described as pressure and/or burning that provoked by physical activity and relieved by rest. Craniofacial pain of cardiac origin usually occurs bilaterally. Dental practitioners could play a crucial role to avoid misdiagnosis of craniofacial pain of cardiac origin.