Orofacial Pain

The specialty of Orofacial Pain Dentistry is concerned with the prevention, evaluation, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of orofacial pain disorders. Such disorders may have pain and associated symptoms arising from a discrete cause, such as postoperative pain or pain associated with a malignancy, or may be syndromes in which pain constitutes the primary problem, such as neuropathic pains or headaches.

With fewer than 300 board-certified dentists, Orofacial Pain is an exciting, emerging field of treatment.

The Orofacial Pain field is dedicated to the evaluating and managing head, face and neck pain.

The Definition of Orofacial Pain Dentistry by the American Board of Orofacial Pain (ABOP)

The diagnosis of painful syndromes relies on interpretation of historical data; review of laboratory studies, imaging, and electrodiagnostic studies; behavioral, social, occupational and avocational assessment; interview and examination by the orofacial pain dentist; and may require specialized diagnostic procedures, including central and peripheral neural blockade or monitored drug infusions. The special needs of the pediatric and geriatric populations are considered when formulating a comprehensive treatment plan for these patients.

The orofacial pain dentist serves as a consultant to other dentists and physicians but is often the principal treating health care provider and may provide care at various levels. Some treatments include: direct treatment, prescribing medication, prescribing rehabilitative services, performing pain relieving procedures, counseling of patients and families, direction of a multidisciplinary team. We also coordinate care with other health care providers and consultative services to public and private agencies pursuant to optimal health care delivery to the patient suffering from a painful disorder.