Skip to main content
Medical Specialty

Find Orofacial Pain Specialists Near Me

Search for qualified orofacial pain specialists in your area. Compare board-certified orofacial pain specialists, read reviews, and find experts in TMJ disorders, facial pain, headaches, and trigeminal neuralgia treatment.

Select Your City

Filter Results

What is an Orofacial Pain Specialist?

An orofacial pain specialist is a dentist or physician who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of pain conditions affecting the face, mouth, jaws, and related structures. These specialists are experts in temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, neuropathic facial pain including trigeminal neuralgia, headaches with orofacial components, bruxism, and musculoskeletal conditions of the head and neck. They use a multidisciplinary approach combining dental knowledge, neuroscience, and pain medicine to treat complex conditions that often overlap multiple medical specialties.

Training and Qualifications

Becoming an orofacial pain specialist requires extensive education and training:

  • 4 years of dental school to earn a DDS or DMD degree (or medical school for MD/DO)
  • 1-2 year postgraduate residency or fellowship in orofacial pain accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA)
  • Total of 9+ years of education and training beyond high school
  • Advanced training in temporomandibular disorders, neuropathic pain, headache medicine, and sleep-related breathing disorders
  • Many complete additional fellowships in headache medicine or pain management

Board Certification: American Board of Orofacial Pain (ABOP). Certification requires completion of an accredited residency program and passing comprehensive written and oral examinations. Diplomate status demonstrates advanced expertise in the diagnosis and management of orofacial pain conditions.

When Should You See an Orofacial Pain Specialist?

You should consider seeing an orofacial pain specialist if:

  • You have persistent jaw pain, clicking, or locking of the jaw joint
  • You experience chronic facial pain that hasn't responded to other treatments
  • You have been diagnosed with or suspect TMJ disorder (TMD)
  • You suffer from trigeminal neuralgia or other neuropathic facial pain
  • You have headaches that may be related to jaw or dental issues
  • You grind or clench your teeth (bruxism) causing pain or damage
  • You need an oral appliance for sleep apnea management
  • You have myofascial pain in the face, head, or neck muscles

Key Facts

Orofacial pain specialists complete specialized training beyond dental or medical school
TMJ disorders affect approximately 10-15% of adults, with women more commonly affected
They treat conditions that often fall between dental and medical specialties
Orofacial pain specialists use both conservative and interventional approaches
Many work collaboratively with neurologists, ENTs, and physical therapists for comprehensive care

Common Conditions Treated

by Orofacial Pain Specialists

Orofacial Pain Specialists are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. Here are some of the most common conditions that orofacial pain specialists help patients manage:

1

Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMD/TMJ)

A group of conditions affecting the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, causing pain, dysfunction, and limited jaw movement.

Key Symptoms

Jaw pain or tenderness
Clicking or popping sounds when opening mouth
Difficulty opening or closing the mouth
Jaw locking in open or closed position
Pain while chewing

Treatment Approach

Orofacial pain specialists perform comprehensive TMJ evaluations including imaging, create custom oral splints, provide physical therapy guidance, administer trigger point injections, and develop multimodal treatment plans to restore function and reduce pain.

Expert care from an certified orofacial pain specialist
2

Trigeminal Neuralgia

A chronic pain condition affecting the trigeminal nerve, causing severe, shock-like facial pain episodes that can be triggered by everyday activities.

Key Symptoms

Sudden, severe, shock-like facial pain
Pain triggered by touching face, chewing, or speaking
Episodes lasting seconds to minutes
Pain typically on one side of the face
Pain-free intervals between attacks

Treatment Approach

Orofacial pain specialists diagnose trigeminal neuralgia through careful clinical evaluation and imaging, differentiate it from dental causes, prescribe appropriate medications, and coordinate with neurosurgeons when interventional procedures are needed.

Expert care from an certified orofacial pain specialist
3

Bruxism (Teeth Grinding and Clenching)

Habitual grinding or clenching of teeth, often during sleep, leading to tooth damage, jaw pain, and muscle fatigue.

Key Symptoms

Worn, flattened, or chipped teeth
Jaw muscle soreness, especially upon waking
Headaches, particularly in the temples
Tooth sensitivity
Partner reports grinding sounds during sleep

Treatment Approach

Orofacial pain specialists create custom occlusal guards to protect teeth, address underlying factors like stress or sleep disorders, provide muscle relaxation techniques, and may use botulinum toxin injections for severe cases.

Expert care from an certified orofacial pain specialist
4

Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Chronic pain condition involving trigger points in the muscles of the face, head, and neck that cause local and referred pain.

Key Symptoms

Deep, aching muscle pain in face or jaw
Tender knots (trigger points) in muscles
Pain that radiates to other areas
Muscle stiffness and fatigue
Limited range of motion in jaw

Treatment Approach

Orofacial pain specialists identify and treat trigger points through injection therapy, prescribe physical therapy and stretching exercises, address contributing factors like posture and stress, and develop comprehensive pain management strategies.

Expert care from an certified orofacial pain specialist
5

Sleep Apnea (Oral Appliance Therapy)

A sleep-related breathing disorder where oral appliances can be used as an alternative to CPAP therapy to keep the airway open during sleep.

Key Symptoms

Loud snoring
Witnessed breathing pauses during sleep
Excessive daytime sleepiness
Morning headaches
Waking with dry mouth or sore throat

Treatment Approach

Orofacial pain specialists design and fit mandibular advancement devices that reposition the lower jaw forward during sleep, opening the airway. They monitor for side effects, adjust appliances for optimal effectiveness, and coordinate with sleep medicine physicians.

Expert care from an certified orofacial pain specialist
6

Chronic Facial Pain

Persistent pain in the face that may be neuropathic, musculoskeletal, or have multiple contributing factors, often requiring comprehensive evaluation.

Key Symptoms

Constant or recurring facial pain
Pain not explained by dental or obvious medical causes
Burning, aching, or stabbing facial sensations
Pain that may worsen with stress
Associated symptoms like numbness or tingling

Treatment Approach

Orofacial pain specialists conduct thorough evaluations to identify all contributing factors, differentiate between pain types, develop individualized multimodal treatment plans, and coordinate care with other specialists when needed.

Expert care from an certified orofacial pain specialist
7

Headache Disorders with Orofacial Component

Headaches that involve or are triggered by structures in the face, jaw, or neck, including tension-type headaches and migraines with facial involvement.

Key Symptoms

Headache associated with jaw clenching or TMJ problems
Facial pain accompanying headaches
Headaches triggered by chewing or jaw movement
Temple or forehead pain with jaw symptoms
Morning headaches related to sleep bruxism

Treatment Approach

Orofacial pain specialists identify the relationship between jaw dysfunction and headaches, provide appropriate oral appliance therapy, address contributing dental factors, and work with neurologists for comprehensive headache management.

Expert care from an certified orofacial pain specialist
8

Burning Mouth Syndrome

A chronic condition characterized by burning sensations in the mouth without visible lesions or identifiable dental cause.

Key Symptoms

Burning sensation on tongue, lips, or palate
Dry mouth sensation despite normal saliva
Altered taste or metallic taste
Symptoms often worsen throughout the day
Pain that may improve while eating or drinking

Treatment Approach

Orofacial pain specialists evaluate for underlying causes, differentiate from other conditions, prescribe targeted medications for neuropathic pain, provide behavioral strategies, and address contributing factors like dry mouth or nutritional deficiencies.

Expert care from an certified orofacial pain specialist

Important Note

This list represents common conditions but is not exhaustive. Orofacial Pain Specialists treat many other conditions related to their specialty. If you're experiencing symptoms or have concerns, consult with a qualified orofacial pain specialist for a proper evaluation.

What to Expect During Your Visit

Understanding what happens during your appointment can help you feel more prepared. Here's what you can typically expect when visiting an orofacial pain specialist.

1

Your First Visit

  • Comprehensive review of your pain history, including onset, location, triggers, and previous treatments
  • Discussion of medical and dental history, medications, and any imaging studies
  • Detailed examination of the jaw joints, facial muscles, teeth, and bite
  • Assessment of jaw range of motion and joint sounds
  • Cranial nerve evaluation and screening for headache disorders
  • Review or ordering of diagnostic imaging such as MRI or CT scan if indicated
  • Initial consultation typically lasts 60-90 minutes for thorough evaluation
2

Diagnosis & Testing

  • Clinical examination of temporomandibular joints for tenderness, clicking, and range of motion
  • Muscle palpation to identify tender points and trigger points in face, head, and neck
  • Dental occlusion (bite) analysis to identify contributing factors
  • MRI of TMJ to evaluate disc position and joint structures when indicated
  • CT scan for bony abnormalities or joint degeneration
  • Diagnostic nerve blocks to help identify pain sources
  • Sleep studies if sleep bruxism or sleep apnea is suspected
3

Treatment Options

  • Custom occlusal splints or oral appliances designed for your specific condition
  • Physical therapy referrals for jaw exercises and posture correction
  • Medications including muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatories, or neuropathic pain medications
  • Trigger point injections or botulinum toxin for muscle-related pain
  • Behavioral therapy and stress management techniques
  • Sleep apnea oral appliances with ongoing titration and monitoring
  • Coordination with other specialists for comprehensive care when needed

Tip for Your Visit

Bring a list of current medications, previous test results, and questions you want to ask. Writing down your symptoms—when they occur and what affects them—helps your orofacial pain specialist provide accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

How to Choose the Right Orofacial Pain Specialist

Finding the right healthcare provider is important for your health and peace of mind. Here are key factors to consider when selecting an orofacial pain specialist.

Credentials to Verify

  • Board certification by the American Board of Orofacial Pain (ABOP)
  • Completion of a CODA-accredited orofacial pain residency or fellowship
  • Active, unrestricted dental or medical license in your state
  • Membership in the American Academy of Orofacial Pain (AAOP)
  • Advanced training in TMJ disorders and facial pain conditions
  • Additional credentials in dental sleep medicine if treating sleep apnea

Important Considerations

  • Experience with your specific condition (TMJ, neuralgia, bruxism, etc.)
  • Availability of in-office diagnostic imaging
  • Collaborative relationships with physical therapists and other specialists
  • Approach to treatment: conservative vs. interventional options
  • Experience with oral appliance therapy for sleep apnea if applicable
  • Willingness to coordinate care with your existing healthcare providers
  • Communication style and thoroughness in explaining treatment options

Quick Tip

Don't hesitate to schedule consultations with multiple orofacial pain specialists before making your decision. The right fit isn't just about credentials—it's also about feeling comfortable and confident in your care.

Cost and Insurance Information

Understanding the costs associated with seeing an orofacial pain specialist can help you plan for your healthcare needs.

Average Costs (Without Insurance)

Initial Visit

$200-$500 (comprehensive evaluation)

Follow-up Visit

$100-$250

Common Procedures

Custom occlusal splint (night guard)$300-$1,000
TMJ MRI imaging$500-$1,500
Trigger point injections$100-$300 per session
Botulinum toxin for bruxism$300-$600
Sleep apnea oral appliance$1,500-$3,000
Comprehensive TMJ treatment program$1,000-$3,000

Note: These are estimated average costs and can vary based on location, provider, and specific services required.

Insurance Coverage

  • Coverage varies significantly between medical and dental insurance
  • TMJ treatment may be covered under medical insurance for documented disorders
  • Some procedures may require medical necessity documentation
  • Sleep apnea oral appliances often covered by medical insurance with prior authorization
  • Dental insurance may cover occlusal splints with limitations
  • Many specialists offer payment plans for out-of-pocket expenses

Medicare Information

Medicare may cover orofacial pain treatment when services are considered medically necessary. TMJ-related services and oral appliances for sleep apnea may be covered under Part B when properly documented. Coverage for dental-related services is generally limited under traditional Medicare.

Money-Saving Tips

  • 1Always verify your orofacial pain specialist is in-network before scheduling
  • 2Ask about self-pay discounts if you don't have insurance
  • 3Inquire about payment plans for expensive procedures
  • 4Get prior authorization when required to avoid claim denials
  • 5Use FSA or HSA funds for eligible medical expenses

Questions to Ask Your Orofacial Pain Specialist

Being prepared for your appointment helps you get the most out of your time with your doctor. Here are important questions to consider asking an orofacial pain specialist:

1

What is causing my facial or jaw pain?

2

What type of TMJ disorder do I have?

3

What are my treatment options, from most to least conservative?

4

How long will treatment take and what results can I expect?

5

Do I need any imaging studies like an MRI?

6

Would a custom splint or oral appliance help my condition?

7

Should I see a physical therapist as part of my treatment?

8

Are there exercises I can do at home to help with my symptoms?

9

How will we know if the treatment is working?

10

Will I need ongoing treatment or is this condition curable?

Pro Tip

Write down your questions before your appointment and bring them with you. Don't hesitate to take notes during your visit or ask for written instructions.

When to Seek Emergency Care

While most conditions can wait for a scheduled appointment with a orofacial pain specialist, certain symptoms require immediate emergency care. Go to the emergency room or call 911 if you experience:

  • Sudden, severe jaw pain with inability to close mouth - may indicate jaw dislocation requiring immediate care
  • Facial numbness or weakness on one side - may indicate stroke or serious neurological condition
  • Severe facial pain with fever, swelling, and difficulty swallowing - may indicate serious infection
  • Trigeminal neuralgia with new neurological symptoms - requires urgent evaluation to rule out underlying cause
  • Inability to open mouth more than 1-2 cm with severe pain - may indicate acute disc displacement requiring urgent care
  • Facial pain with vision changes or severe headache - may indicate serious vascular or neurological emergency

EMERGENCY

Call 911 or nearest ER

URGENT

Doctor or urgent care

NON-URGENT

Regular appointment

Orofacial Pain Specialist vs. Other Specialists

Understanding the differences between medical specialists helps you choose the right provider for your needs. Here's how orofacial pain specialists compare to similar specialists:

Orofacial Pain Specialist vs. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon

Oral surgeons are trained in surgical procedures of the face, mouth, and jaws including wisdom teeth extraction, dental implants, and jaw surgery. Orofacial pain specialists focus on non-surgical diagnosis and treatment of pain conditions like TMJ disorders and facial neuralgia. When surgery is needed for TMJ disorders, orofacial pain specialists often refer to oral surgeons.

Orofacial Pain Specialist vs. Neurologist

Neurologists specialize in disorders of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves throughout the body. While they treat conditions like trigeminal neuralgia, orofacial pain specialists have specialized training in the unique anatomy and function of the jaw system and can provide treatments like oral appliances and TMJ-specific therapies that neurologists do not offer.

Orofacial Pain Specialist vs. Pain Management Specialist

Pain management specialists treat pain throughout the body and may come from anesthesiology or other backgrounds. Orofacial pain specialists focus specifically on the face, mouth, and jaw with specialized training in dental-related pain, TMJ disorders, and oral appliance therapy that general pain specialists typically do not have.

Not sure which specialist you need?

Your primary care physician can help determine the right specialist for your condition and provide a referral if needed.

Sources & References

Information about orofacial pain specialists is sourced from peer-reviewed medical literature and the following authoritative organizations:

AAOPAmerican Academy of Orofacial PainABOPAmerican Board of Orofacial PainNIDCRNational Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research

Last updated: December 2025

Read our editorial standards

Find Orofacial Pain Specialists by City

Browse orofacial pain specialists in top cities across the United States

CHARLESTON, SC1PORTLAND, OR1

Related Specialties

Explore other medical specialties you might be interested in

DentistsFind providers near you

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an orofacial pain specialist and a general dentist?

While general dentists may treat simple dental pain, orofacial pain specialists have completed 1-2 years of additional specialized training focused on complex pain conditions of the face and jaws. They are experts in diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders, neuropathic pain like trigeminal neuralgia, chronic headaches with facial involvement, and other conditions that require specialized knowledge beyond general dental training.

How long does TMJ treatment take?

Treatment duration varies based on severity and type of TMJ disorder. Many patients experience improvement within 4-8 weeks of conservative treatment including splint therapy and physical therapy. More complex cases may require 3-6 months or longer for significant improvement. Chronic conditions may need ongoing management to maintain symptom control.

Are oral appliances effective for sleep apnea?

Oral appliances are effective for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea and for patients who cannot tolerate CPAP. Studies show they reduce the apnea-hypopnea index by 50% or more in many patients. Success depends on proper fitting, regular follow-up, and the specific characteristics of your sleep apnea. They work by advancing the lower jaw forward to keep the airway open during sleep.

Can TMJ problems cause headaches?

Yes, TMJ disorders are commonly associated with headaches, particularly tension-type headaches and sometimes migraines. Muscle tension from jaw clenching, joint dysfunction, and referred pain from trigger points can all contribute to headaches. Many patients experience significant headache improvement when their TMJ disorder is properly treated.

Is surgery ever needed for TMJ disorders?

Surgery is rarely needed for TMJ disorders. Studies show that 80-90% of TMJ patients improve with conservative treatments like splint therapy, physical therapy, medications, and lifestyle modifications. When surgery is considered, orofacial pain specialists typically refer to oral and maxillofacial surgeons for procedures like arthrocentesis, arthroscopy, or in rare cases, open joint surgery.

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or qualified health provider with questions about a medical condition. If you have a medical emergency, call 911.

Read our editorial standards