The role of depression on quality of life in patients with chronic orofacial pain

Depression is known to co-occur with chronic orofacial pain, and quality of life is also known to be negatively impacted in those experiencing chronic orofacial pain. Little is known about the nature of the relationship between depression, chronic orofacial pain intensity and quality of life, therefore, the current thesis aimed to explore the role of depression on quality of life in patients with chronic orofacial pain.<br><br> First, a narrative literature review was conducted which explored the relationship between depression and pain intensity and depression and quality of life in chronic orofacial pain patients.

Theoretical perspectives through which chronic orofacial pain is understood were presented, whilst clinical implications of the available evidence were considered in relation to existing treatment approaches for depression in chronic orofacial pain. Based on the evidence found, a model of depression co-occurring with chronic orofacial pain was presented to develop a better understanding of the relationship between the variables of depression, chronic orofacial pain intensity and quality of life.