OBJECTIVETo compare the therapeutic effect between combination of Shu-stream and Ying-spring acupoints and routine acupoints selected by syndrome differentiation for toothache.

METHODSEighty-five cases were randomly divided into a combination of Shu-stream and Ying-spring acupoints group (group A, 43 cases) and a routine acupionts group (group B, 42 cases). In group A, according to the corresponding relationship between viscera-meridians and different kinds of teeth, the Shu-stream and Ying-spring acupoints at both sides of the corresponding meridians were sleeted. The group B was treated with acupuncture at Jiache (ST 6), Xiaguan (ST 7), Hegu (LI 4), erjian (LI 2), Neiting (ST 44). Yifeng (TE 17) and Fengchi (GB 20) were added for wind and fire attacking; Lidui (ST 45) and Quchi (LI 11) were added for intense stomach fire; Taixi (KI 3) and Zhaohai (KI 6) were added for deficiency fire flaming up. Electroacupuncture was applied in two groups, once every day, ten treatments constituted one course, the differences of effect and recurrence rate were observed after one course and half a year later.

RESULTSThe cured rate were respectively 88.4% (38/43)and 69.0% (29/42) in group A and group B, with a significant difference (P < 0.05). The recurrence rates were respectively 23.7% (9/38) and 55.2% (16/29) in group A and group B, with a significant difference (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONBoth short-term and long-term therapeutic effects of combination of Shu-stream and Ying-spring acupoints are significantly better than those of routine acupoints in treating toothache.