Chronic idiopathic orofacial pain: I: What is the evidence base?

Chronic idiopathic orofacial pain is currently a problem for the specialists, but is this type of disorder peculiar to the face, and is there a role for the general dental practitioner? This article reviews the current understanding and management of medically unexplained syndromes and discusses their application in facial pain. A second article will merge this contemporary theory and clinical evidence into a management strategy, and stress the importance of early intervention in the primary care setting. © British Dental Journal 2001.