The integration of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, deep learning, robotics, and Big Data into our physical daily lives has defined the Fourth Industrial Age. Clinicians are now provided with vast new opportunities to improve health care and optimize their approach to patient care. AI can be conceptualized into two main fields, namely artificial general intelligence (AGI) and artificial narrow intelligence (ANI). AGI is generally concerned with the design of machines that can mimic human intelligence with the goal of creating machines that can perform functions similar to humans or even functions that surpass what a human can do (superintelligence).
Background: Central sensitization (CS) is a form of neuroplasticity characterized by changes in the neural sensitivity, responsiveness and/or output that are not contingent on peripheral input nor activity dependent. CS is characterized by activation of unmyelinated C-fibers resulting in a cascade of events at molecular and cellular levels which eventuate into generation of synaptic currents at rest. CS therefore, contributes to heightened generalized pain sensitivity, further complicates the process of reaching a diagnosis, and increases the possibility of treatment failure.
Body:Trigeminal nerve is the main sensory supplier of the anterior part of the head, including the intraoral structures. Primary afferent nociceptors of the trigeminal nerve and low threshold mechanoreceptors synapse with wide dynamic range (WDR) neurons in the pons. This multifaceted network of nerve interactions which is further complicated by the modulatory circuits that can suppress or heighten the activity of WDR neurons is one of the main contributors to CS.The importance of CS in orofacial pain disorders is emphasized in the context of chronic pain development. As for all chronic pain conditions, it is crucial to consider the biopsychosocial aspects of chronic orofacial pain in managing this diverse group of conditions. This review highlights current understanding of the biopsychosocial model and central mechanisms contributing to the pathogenesis of chronic orofacial pain.
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