The ability of a mathematical model to evaluate the effects of two pain modulating procedures on pulpal pain in man

The ability of a mathematical model to evaluate the effects of two different pain modulating procedures (partial nerve block and vibration) on acute experimental pulpal pain was studied. The results were also compared with placebo procedures and it was shown that the model could accurately quantify the parameters that determine the pain response following cold-induced intradental nerve impulse activity (INA). The most effective pain relieving method was found to be partial nerve block which induced significant parameter alterations reflecting decreased pain sensation and increased reaction time. Thus, it was shown that the present mathematical model is a useful tool enabling detailed analysis of differences in pain relieving procedures on human pulpal pain mediated by nerves of the A type.