A group of 1135 edentulous patients was investigated radiographically and clinically to determine the relation between elongated styloid processes and four symptoms frequently encountered in patients suffering from Eagle's syndrome. The radiologic finding of elongated styloid processes and/or ossification of the stylomandibular or stylohyoid ligaments occurred in about 30% of the patients. In female patients, facial pain and pain on turning the head appear to be related to the radiologic finding.