skip to main content

Diagnostic LA Test — ORE Part 1 MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

ModerateOral MedicineDiagnostic LA TestORE Part 1

A patient has persistent unilateral facial pain that they localise to a maxillary premolar, but examination and radiographs are inconclusive. Which clinical test can help distinguish odontogenic pain from non-odontogenic facial pain?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: D — Administer local anaesthetic around the suspected tooth

The correct answer is **A**. A carefully delivered local anaesthetic block around the suspected tooth can be used as a diagnostic localisation test. Resolution of the familiar pain following an adequate block supports an odontogenic source from that tooth or its supporting tissues; persistence of the pain should raise suspicion of a non-odontogenic or referred source and prompt reassessment rather than irreversible dental treatment. The result must be interpreted alongside history, examination, sensibility tests and appropriate imaging. Blood pressure and blood glucose testing may be relevant in selected unwell patients but do not localise facial pain. Chest radiography and urinalysis are not routine tests for differentiating a suspected dental source of facial pain.

Reference: Okeson JP. Nonodontogenic toothache. Texas Dental Journal. 2000;117(7):64–74. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11858065/