Chronic orofacial pain and pharmacological management: a clinical guide

Abstract

Orofacial pain is a widespread health concern that significantly hinders an individual's capacity to engage in daily activities. This type of pain can be classified into three main categories: nociceptive pain, neuropathic pain, and nociplastic pain. Each category involves different mechanisms and requires specific treatment approaches. For optimal treatment of orofacial pain disorders, a multidisciplinary pain management approach is essential. This approach should integrate both nonpharmacological and pharmacological modalities to address the diverse underlying causes and manifestations of pain. In this review, we focus on the current evidence and advancements in the pharmacological management of chronic orofacial pain. We explored the effectiveness of different medications, their mechanisms of action, and their role within a comprehensive pain management plan.