Orofacial pain (OFP) refers to pain in the face, head, and neck. This includes problems with teeth, skin, muscles, bones, joints, blood vessels, nerves, and glands. OFP is recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA) as the newest dental specialty. Some of the problems an OFP provider addresses are jaw joint and muscle disorders (TMD), headaches—including migraines, nerve problems, and some sleep disorders. These problems are a mix of dentistry and medicine, so they require extensive education and training. Fortunately, there are several hundred OFP specialists around the globe.
OFP specialists are among the most highly trained dentists in dental sleep medicine. Many general dentists are also trained in sleep medicine through accredited dental sleep medicine programs. If you have sleep problems, it is important to discuss with your doctor and consider seeking additional evaluation from a credentialed dentist if deemed appropriate for your concerns.
Pain and Sleep are interrelated. If you have pain, especially chronic pain, it may be difficult to sleep, and you can develop a chronic sleep problem. When you sleep poorly you are more likely to feel more pain and have delayed healing. The pain à poor sleepà more pain à worse sleep is a vicious cycle. Addressing sleep and pain problems together is often the best approach. OFP and sleep-credentialed dentists can help address some sleep-related breathing problems such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and snoring. They also treat jaw movement disorders including sleep bruxism (teeth clenching and grinding). Treatments are customized for each patient.
The big picture is that OFP often reduces both the quality and quantity of sleep and may lead to insomnia. If you have sleep problems and OFP, discuss them with your medical provider and consider seeking a qualified dentist in your area. Ideally someone with expertise in OFP and sleep disorders. Many treatments are available. Your healthcare team can work together to provide better outcomes and help you get your best sleep.
Dr. Michael Simmons DMD holds a Master of Public Health and a Master of Science in Sleep Medicine. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orofacial Pain and the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine and the director of two accredited dental sleep medicine facilities.