Which group of non-odontogenic disorders is most likely to cause tooth pain?

Myofascial pain is a common cause of tooth pain that originates from muscle disorders rather than directly from the teeth themselves. This type of pain often arises in the context of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction or muscle strain, which can lead to referred pain in the teeth due to the complex neuroanatomy of the jaw and facial region. Patients may perceive pain in their teeth even though the underlying issue is muscular rather than dental.

In contrast, neurovascular or headache pain typically involves conditions like migraines or cluster headaches, which may lead to head pain but are less likely to be misinterpreted specifically as tooth pain. Neuropathic pain relates to nerve damage and can occur in various forms, but it often does not localize specifically to the teeth unless there is a direct neuropathic process affecting the dental region. Psychogenic pain, which stems from psychological factors, can contribute to discomfort but is more abstract and does not always present as the localized tooth pain typically seen with myofascial sources. Thus, myofascial pain is the group of non-odontogenic disorders most likely to cause tooth pain due to its direct association with musculoskeletal issues in the jaw area.