Development of Orofacial Pain Programs in Dental Schools

This paper discusses the critical issues that surround the development of an orofacial pain program in a dental school and suggests strategies to address them. Since the University of Minnesota has an established orofacial pain program involved in both predoctoral and postdoctoral teaching, clinical and basic research, and interdisciplinary patient care over the past 20 years, this article uses this as a model for development of an orofacial pain program. The proposal includes overall goals, background and rationale, specific aims, and program activities, including teaching, research, patient care, and financial and resource needs. These features may be of assistance to those considering the development of such programs in the United States and elsewhere in the world. Keywords: orofacial pain, temporomandibular disorders, dental curriculum, educational conference