Orofacial pain

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

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Orofacial pain refers to pain perceived in the face and/or oral cavity. It is a common symptom that can arise from a variety of conditions affecting the head, neck, mouth, and face. Orofacial pain can be acute or chronic and may be associated with a wide range of disorders, including dental issues, temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), neuropathic pain, and musculoskeletal pain.

Classification[edit | edit source]

Orofacial pain can be classified into several categories based on its origin:

Causes[edit | edit source]

The causes of orofacial pain are diverse and can include:

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosing orofacial pain involves a thorough clinical examination and may include:

  • Medical and dental history
  • Physical examination of the head, neck, and oral cavity
  • Imaging studies such as X-ray, CT scan, or MRI
  • Laboratory tests to rule out infections or systemic conditions
  • Referral to specialists such as a dentist, neurologist, or otolaryngologist

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment of orofacial pain depends on the underlying cause and may include:

Prevention[edit | edit source]

Preventive measures for orofacial pain include:

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

External links[edit | edit source]


Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD