Neuromagnetic localization of cortical activity evoked by painful dental stimulation in man.
We have recorded cerebral magnetic fields evoked by painful dental stimulation. The field pattern indicates a current source at the upper bank of the anterior Sylvian Fissure, corresponding to the anterior end of the secondary somatosensory cortex. This finding suggests cortical representation of tooth pulp in man. The neuromagnetic technique, allowing the investigation of this cortical area, thus provides a new non-invasive tool for pain research.
D000328:Adult; D003782:Dental Pulp / Q000294:innervation; D004597:Electroshock; D005071:Evoked Potentials; D006801:Humans; D007180:Incisor / Q000294:innervation; D008280:Magnetics; D013003:Somatosensory Cortex / Q000503:physiopathology*; D014098:Toothache / Q000503:physiopathology*