Diagnosis of Overlapping Orofacial Pain Diseases & Disorders (Recorded)

Deriving an accurate diagnosis is the most critical and challenging step in managing orofacial pain (OFP). When overlapping conditions co-occur—such as TMD, primary headaches, and neuropathic pain—symptoms frequently mimic dental pathology, leading to misdiagnosis or inappropriate interventions. This webinar explores the clinical challenges of overlapping OFP disorders, the application of diagnostic taxonomies (e.g., ICOP & DC/TMD), and the role of diagnostic provocations, local anesthetic blocks, and advanced diagnostic imaging in disentangling complex presentations.

Learning Objectives:

By the end of this webinar, participants will be able to:

• Understand the high prevalence of overlap between temporomandibular disorders (TMD), primary headaches, and neuropathic pain.
• Identify key diagnostic pitfalls caused by terminology, non-operationalized criteria, and sensory abnormalities in overlapping OFP disorders.
• Utilize provocation testing and diagnostic blocks to isolate specific pain generators in complex, multi-site orofacial pain presentations.
• Formulate a structured differential diagnosis algorithm that accounts for peripheral drivers, central nervous system modulation, and comorbid conditions.

AAOP has designated this webinar for 1 continuing education credit.