Evaluating Sensory Assessment Methods for Measuring Facial Cutaneous Sensation

Checking Feeling in the Face with Tests

G
Gregory Borschel, MD

Primary Investigator

Enrolling By Invitation
8 years or above
All
Phase N/A
60 participants needed
1 Location

Brief description of study

The most common sensory assessment methods currently used in clinical practice include the Moving and Static Two-Point Discrimination Test (2PD), Semmes–Weinstein Monofilament Test (SWM), and the Ten Test (TT). Despite advancements in sensory assessment methods, the application of these tests has largely remained confined to the hand. To date, limited evidence exists regarding the performance of these sensory tests in other anatomic regions (Vriens et al., 2011). Expanding the use of these assessment tools beyond the hand could improve sensory evaluation across a broader range of clinical settings. However, it remains unclear which of the tests (2PD, SWM, or TT) demonstrates the best validity, reliability, feasibility, and clinical applicability for routine facial sensory assessment. We hypothesize that there is no difference amongst the three tests (2PD, SWM, or TT) in measuring facial sensory responses. Therefore, we will evaluate and compare the validity, reliability, and clinical applicability of 2PD, SWM, and TT for facial sensation assessment among patients undergoing inferior alveolar nerve block procedures. Our overarching research question is “Which of the three sensory assessment methods best detects and characterizes facial sensory reduction after a known temporary nerve block?”

THIS STUDY IS ENROLLING BY INVITATION ONLY - This study will be conducted among patients among pediatric and adult patients undergoing inferior alveolar nerve block procedures from pediatric dentistry, graduate prosthodontics, and graduate Cariology and Operative Dentistry clinics at Indiana University School of Dentistry Indianapolis over a 12-month period between June 2026 and May 2027. Eligible participants will be identified and a member of the research team will then approach eligible patients, and where applicable their parent or legal guardian, in person during the approached during routine outpatient clinic visits to introduce the study and assess interest in participation.

Detailed description of study

Following enrollment, participants will undergo pre-block facial sensory assessments using the designated sensory testing tools. Participants will then proceed with the routine inferior alveolar nerve block procedure and subsequently return for post-block sensory assessment according to the study protocol. Routine clinical care for the procedure typically lasts approximately 40 minutes. Participation in this study is expected to extend the visit duration by an additional 30 minutes due to the sensory assessments conducted before and after nerve block administration.

Eligibility of study

You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria:

  • Conditions: Dental pain, Dentoalveolar trauma, Dry socket, Periapical abscess
  • Age: 8 years or above
  • Gender: All

Inclusion criteria:
•    Patients who are at or above age 8 are receiving care at one of the three clinics used for recruitment
•    Ability to comprehend and reliably respond to sensory testing instructions 
•    Parents and child ability to communicate in English
•    No prior surgical procedures, trauma, or known conditions affecting sensation in the region of interest 
•    Provision of informed consent (and assent for pediatric participants, as appropriate)

Exclusion criteria:
•    Known neurological conditions affecting peripheral sensation (e.g., diabetic neuropathy, peripheral neuropathy of other etiologies) 
•    Active infection, open wounds, or dermatologic conditions at the testing site 
•    Cognitive impairment or inability to reliably participate in sensory assessment 

This study investigates how well different sensory tests measure feeling in the face. The purpose is to see which test works best when people get a nerve block, a procedure that stops feeling in the face for a short time. The study will look at three tests: the Moving and Static Two-Point Discrimination Test (2PD), the Semmes–Weinstein Monofilament Test (SWM), and the Ten Test (TT). These tests are usually used on hands, but this study will see how well they work on faces.

Participants will have their facial feeling checked with the three tests before and after they receive a nerve block as part of their dental care. This will happen during regular visits to the dentist. The tests will take about 30 minutes longer than the usual visit. These visits are part of regular dental care, and the study will compare the tests to see which one is best for checking feeling in the face.

  • Who can participate: Patients 8 years or older who understand and respond to tests, speak English, and have no past surgeries or conditions affecting facial sensation are eligible.
  • Study details: Facial sensation will be tested before and after a dental procedure, adding about 30 minutes to the visit.
  • Study timelines: The study will last 12 months.
Updated on 30 Jun 2026. Study ID: SURG-IIR-32113, 32113
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Interested in the study?

This study is accepting only persons who receive care at a certain clinic or doctor or who are part of an invited group. Questions about this study can be directed to the study team listed in the description or contact your doctor to see if you are eligible.

Accepting Referrals by Invitation Only