What Is Orofacial Pain?
Advancing Knowledge. Improving Lives.
Orofacial pain is among the most common yet frequently underdiagnosed health conditions affecting the mouth, face, head, jaw, and neck. It can interfere with eating, speaking, sleeping, working, and overall quality of life.
The Global Institute for TMD and Orofacial Health is dedicated to improving the understanding, prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management of orofacial pain and related craniofacial conditions through research, education, innovation, and humanitarian care.
Understanding Orofacial Pain
Orofacial pain refers to pain arising from the mouth, jaws, face, head, neck, or associated structures. It encompasses a broad range of conditions, including:
- Myofascial pain syndrome
- Neuropathic orofacial pain
- Headache disorders related to jaw dysfunction
- Trigeminal neuralgia
- Burning mouth syndrome
- Persistent dentoalveolar pain
- Craniofacial musculoskeletal disorders
Many patients experience symptoms for months or even years before receiving an accurate diagnosis.
Who Can Be Affected?
Orofacial pain can affect people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds.
Risk may increase with factors such as:
- Jaw injury or trauma
- Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)
- Psychological stress and anxiety
- Arthritis
- Connective tissue disorders
- Sleep disorders, including obstructive sleep apnea
- Poor posture
- Chronic pain conditions