• Frank Lobbezoo, Karl G H Parisius, and Merel C Verhoeff.
• Department of Orofacial Pain and Dysfunction, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
• Pain. 2024 Nov 1; 165 (11S): S15S22S15-S22.

AbstractPeople with special needs, like those with Down syndrome, Parkinson disease, or dementia, frequently suffer from orofacial pain conditions and dysfunction of the masticatory system. However, the accurate assessment of orofacial pain and dysfunction in such individuals is challenging. In this review, the complexities of assessing and managing orofacial pain and dysfunction in special needs populations will be described, along with their comorbid orofacial conditions like impaired oral health, salivary problems, and movement disorders of the masticatory system. In addition, the importance of maintaining or restoring a good quality of life will be highlighted, while the urgent need for oral care as part of palliative care will be stressed as well. To accomplish all this, interdisciplinary collaboration between medical doctors and dentists should be promoted in research, education, prevention, and care provision. Therefore, this review focuses specifically on this important topic.Copyright © 2024 International Association for the Study of Pain.

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