Orofacial pain is one of 12 recognized dental specialities by the American Dental Association. The specialty of orofacial pain includes the diagnosis and treatment of chronic pain and dysfunction from the neck up. Scope of care includes musculoskeletal, neuropathic, neurovascular, and sleep disorders.

Orofacial pain specialist should be seen anytime you’re experiencing pain in your neck, jaw, and head that doesn’t resolve on its own after two weeks.

Orofacial pain specialists complete specialized training during a two-year residency program at a CODA-accredited university and are board-certified diplomates of the American Board of Orofacial Pain.

TMJ a common misnomer used to describe jaw pain is actually short for Temporomandibular Joint. We have two of these joints that are located just in front of your ears and is designed to help humans chew and talk, opening and closing the mouth. Pain in the jaw can be classified as musculoskeletal, joint, neuropathic, or neurovascular. All pain related to the jaw is currently classified using the umbrella term Temporomandibular Disorders or TMD.

Symptoms can vary based on the location and structures involved. If your pain persists beyond two weeks please seek the care of an orofacial pain specialist for a full evaluation.

Treatments vary depending on conditions. Treatment modalities may include diagnostic imaging, injections, appliance therapy, and/or medications.

I treat chronic pain from the neck up. This includes joint, muscle, nerve, and vascular disorders. I treat obstructive sleep apnea through the use of intraoral sleep appliances.