To diagnose the cause of orofacial pain, a physician will review the patient’s medical history and conduct a physical examination.

A patient may be asked to complete a pain assessment form or otherwise fully describe the pain, including the nature of the pain, site where it occurs, time of day it occurs, conditions that cause it and conditions that alleviate or worsen the pain, and previous treatment attempted to relieve the orofacial pain.

Patients may be referred to other specialists who treat different kinds of orofacial pain, such as dentists, neurologists (physicians who specialize in the nervous system), otolaryngologists (physicians who specialize in treating disorders of the ears, nose and throat), oral and maxillofacial surgeons, psychologists or psychiatrists (professionals who specialize in treating emotional disorders), or specialist in pain management.

Patients may undergo special types of examinations, such as a neurological examination or a psychological examination.

A blood test may be ordered to detect infection or other possible causes of pain. Sometimes physicians will perform imaging tests to further determine the cause. Some common imaging tests that may be performed include:

• X-ray. An image of an organ, bone structure or other body part on film or fluorescent screen. It is produced by a low dose of radiation.
  
  
• CAT scan (computed axial tomography). A test that allows for multiple x–rays to be taken from different angles around the patient. It creates images of organs and bones within the body. It may be performed alone or with the use of an injected special dye (contrast medium).
  
  
• MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). A noninvasive or minimally invasive imaging test that can help physicians diagnose diseases of numerous organs and vessels. MRI uses powerful magnets rather than radiation to produce images on a computer screen and film.
  
  
• Radionuclide imaging. Use of tiny amounts of radioactive substances to detect internal pathologies. A bone scan, PET scan or other nuclear medicine test may be ordered if the physician suspects disorders such as osteomyelitis (bone infection), hidden fractures or a tumor.