The psychiatric referral in dentistry: indications and mechanics.

Psychiatric consultation is sometimes a part of the diagnostic evaluation of facial pain. The indications for referral arise out of the history. Several brief questions may indicate whether or not a psychiatric illness is present. Patients may hold beliefs or attitudes about their illness or about psychiatric treatment that make referral difficult. Successful referral depends on the relationship that the dentist establishes with the patient. Recommendations to facilitate the referral are presented.