Orofacial Pain

Orofacial Pain (OFP) is a broad term used to describe symptoms of pain and/or dysfunction in the head and neck region. 

One of the newest recognized advanced dental education disciplines, OFP is the specialty of dentistry that encompasses the diagnosis, management and treatment of pain disorders of the jaw, mouth, face, head and neck. The specialty of OFP is dedicated to the evidenced-based understanding of the underlying pathophysiology, etiology, prevention and treatment of these disorders and improving access to interdisciplinary patient care. 

OFP associated disorders include, but are not limited to, temporomandibular muscle and joint (TMJ) disorders, jaw movement disorders, neuropathic and neurovascular pain disorders, headache and sleep disorders. Symptoms may include atypical pains or sensations such as ringing in the ears (tinnitus), dizziness, muscular incoordination or even abnormal itching or tingling in the head and neck region.

There are 12 Commission on Dental Accreditation-recognized Orofacial Pain programs in the United States that range from 12 to 36 months in length. Not all programs may be accepting applicants.