Occlusal dysaesthesia: an unusual, persistent somatic symptom

Occlusal dysaesthesia – also known as phantom bite – is the perception of an altered bite without any objectively verifiable occlusal discrepancy. Approximately 75% of cases arise following dental treatment or trauma. The sensation of a changed bite often occurs in dental practice as a temporary discomfort following a dental procedure. In most cases, it soon resolves itself or is resolved after a minor occlusal adjustment. However, when the bite continues to feel abnormal, it is classified as a persistent somatic symptom. For dentists-general practitioners, there is an approach designed to equip them with tools to engage in dialogue with the affected patient and to facilitate referral for interventions optimizing conditions for symptom resolution.