Diagnostic delay and suboptimal management in persistent idiopathic facial pain and persistent dentoalveolar pain; a cross-sectional study.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to explore the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges encountered by patients with persistent idiopathic facial pain (PIFP) and to investigate factors influencing its delayed diagnosis.

Study Design: In this cross-sectional study, 34 patients with newly diagnosed PIFP were interviewed. Data about diagnostic delay, number and nature of previous consultations, and previous medical and surgical interventions were recorded.