History and examination of the orofacial pain patient

Taking a history and performing an examination on an orofacial pain patient differs significantly from that in the general dental patient. Orofacial pain dentists must be familiar with the disorders that cause chronic head and neck pain. In addition, they must know the pertinent aspects of history taking with regard to the chief complaint, history of the present illness, the relevance of the past medical and dental history and how the social history can act as an important etiologic and prognostic factor. The clinician must also be versed in the elements of the orofacial pain examination which include evaluation of the TMJ and cervical spine; head, neck and dental examination; and, often, neurological and otolaryngological screening. The clinician should also have a familiarity with blood testing, urinalysis and know the uses and limitations of diagnostic imaging.