Orofacial pain refers to discomfort or pain experienced in the face and mouth, including the jaws, teeth, and surrounding soft tissues. It includes a variety of conditions that may have dental, musculoskeletal, neurological, or vascular origins.
Assessment and Diagnosis:
– Comprehensive history and assessment
– Investigations: MRI, X-ray, CT scan
– Follow-up for the personalised multimodal management plan
– Referrals to specialists (e.g. dentists, neurologists)
Multimodal Treatment:
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include:
– Oral analgesics, including anti-neuropathic medication
– Dental interventions
– Pain interventions: nerve block, Botox injection
– Physical therapy: for muscle-related issues or temporomandibular dysfunction
– Psychological support: stress management, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)