For Patients

We welcome referrals from dentists, physicians and other allied health professionals although patients are also welcome to contact us directly as well to request an appointment for an orofacial pain consultation.

Your Visit

At NCOFP we take a collaborative approach with referring clinicians, viewing referrals as valuable partnerships crucial to patient well-being.

Please ask your dentist, GP, or allied healthcare provider to submit a referral or consultation request to our orofacial pain clinic in Roscam, Galway, via email or post. The referral letter should ideally detail your primary area of concern, the duration of your symptoms, and include any X-rays or OPGs, along with your medical history.

Due to the high volume of calls and emails we receive, if you are unable to reach us immediately, please leave a voicemail. We will promptly return your call to arrange an appointment, usually by the next working day.

Upon receiving your referral, Dr. Chah will evaluate if further investigations are necessary before your consultation. Whenever possible, we will coordinate these tests to coincide with your appointment.

After your orofacial pain consultation, Dr. Chah will discuss the available treatment options with you. In some instances, additional imaging and tests may be required before finalising a treatment plan. This may involve a subsequent visit to our clinic prior to your treatment plan being put in place.

What does an Orofacial Pain Consultation at NCOFP looks like?

An Orofacial Pain consultation visit at our practice is thoughtfully designed to provide a thorough and patient-centric approach. We strive to address all aspects of your condition and ensure that your care is tailored to your individual needs.

The Consultation

The consultation begins by gathering a detailed medical history, including any hospitalizations, traumas or other important information that may be relevant to your condition. We then delve into a detailed discussion about your pain, including its onset, duration, and severity. Our aim is to gather all necessary details to form a complete picture of your condition. This information provides valuable insights into your unique situation and helps us understand the underlying causes of your pain.

Dr. Neysan Chah will then carry out a thorough clinical examination of the affected area and any other relevant areas including your neck, jaw, head, teeth and other oral structures. This examination allows him to assess the structures involved and identify any potential contributing factors to your condition. In addition to the clinical examination, Dr. Chah may utilise various diagnostic techniques to gather further information. These may include imaging studies such as an OPG (panoramic x-ray) to assess your teeth and jaw. Specialized tests may also be employed when necessary to obtain a more comprehensive understanding of your condition.

Once a clinical picture has been obtained and a differential diagnosis is constructed, Dr. Chah will then outline the various treatment options available to you. Each treatment option will be thoroughly explained, including their benefits and potential drawbacks, allowing you to make informed decisions about your care.

Our goal is to not only to help alleviate your pain and improve your quality of life but also to empower you with knowledge and resources to actively participate in your treatment. We believe in a patient-centred approach where your concerns and preferences are considered at every step of the way. Together, we will discuss treatment options, and create a comprehensive care plan that is practical yet sustainable and designed specifically for you.

At NCOFP, we value collaborative care and recognize the importance of partnering with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive and holistic care for our patients. We work closely with dentists, neurologists, psychologists, respiratory physicians, acupuncturists, physiotherapists and other specialists to ensure that you receive the highest quality of care. This collaborative approach allows us to address all aspects of your condition and provide you with a well-rounded treatment protocol that is tailored to your unique needs.

Throughout your visit, we believe in open communication, empathy, and a personalised approach to your care. We listen to your concerns and preferences and foster a supportive environment where your needs are understood. This allows you to play an active role in making informed treatment decisions that help improve your quality of life.

Your Appointment Checklist

Please bring the following with you to your appointment:

OPG – clear and taken within the last 3 months. If you do not have a recent OPG please let us know at the time of booking and we will organise to have one taken on the day of your appointment with us.
Any referral letters, specialist reports etc that you may already have.
If you are taking any medications, please bring a list of these with you to the appointment and the associated dosages.
If you wear a nightguard/splint, please also bring this with you to your appointment.