Facial Pains


Facial Pain Disorders: Donald R. Tanenbaum, DDS, MPH

Although currently the field of orofacial pain has not been designated a specialty by the American Dental Association, practitioners in this area have recognized a need to carve a specific niche within the broad field of pain management. Efforts over the last fifteen years have increasingly defined the role of the trained dental practitioner in helping to diagnose and manage complaints in the head, face, and jaw.

Under the larger umbrella of Orofacial Pain, there are a number of problems seen on a daily basis. The most common orofacial pain disorders include:

A. Pain of muscular origin (jaw/neck)
B. Pain originating from the temporomandibular joints
C. Tension type headaches
D. Vascular headaches
E. Neuralgia
F. Sinus disease
G. Dental disease

The complaint of persistent pain in the head and face is quite common in today’s society. The familiar words which echo our complaints include headache, toothache, earache and jaw pain. Each of these pains can be characterized by a variety of seemingly dissimilar sensations that are described as burning, aching, throbbing, and pulling, to name just a few. Due to the specific origins of each of these pain phenomena, a self limiting or progressive experience can be anticipated over time.

  • Temporomandibular Disorders
  • Muscular pain syndromes, including muscle tension headaches
  • Persistent tooth pain
  • Atypical facial pain syndromes

Through the mutual efforts of universities, hospitals and professional organizations, great strides have been made with regard to diagnostic classification and management strategies that are appropriate for a vast array of facial pain problems.

Though facial pain syndromes and Temporomandibular disorders can become chronic and rather disruptive for one’s life, the majority of these problems are limited and cyclical in nature. The key to proper management lies in early detection, education, accurate diagnosis and appropriate intervention.

Visit Dr. Tanenbaum’s website at yourachingface.com

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