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The development and progression of cervical lesions have not been thoroughly documented. Clinically, two morphologically distinct forms, saucer-or wedge-shaped, have been described. In this study, the micromorphology of manifest cervical lesions was documented in six subjects, by SEM replication and microendoscopy. Optoelectronic recordings were made of extreme mandibular lateral excursions. Salivary parameters were evaluated and a detailed case history, including oral hygiene and dietary habits, was taken. Lesions of varying severity could be observed in the same subject. Longitudinal fractures of the enamel were common. The dietary analyses were uneventful and salivary values were normal. No correlation was found between brushing habits and the location and severity of the lesions. The optoelectronic recordings, however, indicated a possible correlation between irregular lateral excursion and the severity and location of the lesions, with a tendency for fewer and less severe lesions on the preferred chewing side. The results have indicated some areas of interest for future studies applying non-invasive observation methods.

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Atypical odontalgia (AO) is a chronic form of dental pain without signs of pathology. Several hypotheses have been put forward regarding the pathophysiology. AO has been proposed to be psychogenic, vascular, neuropathic or idiopathic. The scientific evidence supporting or rejecting these hypotheses are reviewed in this paper. At this time, the best supported hypothesis is that AO is a neuropathic pain condition. Relevant differential diagnoses, such as odontogenic pain, sinusitis, trigeminal neuralgia among others, are presented and the evidence regarding possible management strategies is reviewed. A treatment algorithm for AO is proposed based on the rather scarce scientific evidence available and inspired by a similar treatment algorithm for peripheral neuropathic pain. The proposed strategy involves an interdisciplinary approach including patient education, psychological counselling, topical and systemic medication and, importantly, avoidance of invasive treatments like surgery and endodontics. Two illustrative cases are presented.