Isabel Moreno Hay, DDS PhD ABOP ABDSM
Division Chief and Program Director, Orofacial Pain
University of Kentucky College of Dentistry
Learning objectives:
Recognize the most common orofacial pain diagnosis that can present in a dental practice, and how to appropriately treatment plan these conditions from an evidence-based and multidisciplinary approach.
Description:
This lecture provides a foundational overview of orofacial pain emphasizing its complexity and relevance in dental practice. The session highlights diagnostic approaches, differential diagnosis, and the dentist’s role in early recognition and management of orofacial pain conditions. This presentation will provide an overview of the classification of orofacial pain types—musculoskeletal, neuropathic, and neurovascular—along with common clinical presentations. It also underscores the importance of interdisciplinary care and evidence-based treatment options. The goal is to equip general dentists with essential knowledge to confidently assess and recognize patients with orofacial pain complaints in the dental office.