Dr. Preetanjali Thakur comes to us with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery. She subsequently completed a fellowship in Orofacial Pain and Temporomandibular Disorders, and an Advanced Education clinical training residency in Temporomandibular Disorders at the University of MN. Most recently, Dr Thakur completed her Masters of Dental Science, also at the University of Minnesota.
Basic Information | Details |
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State Medical License: Specialty Dentist | Minnesota S127 |
Physician NPI Number | 1184023772 |
Provider Taxonomy | Dentist – Orofacial Pain 1223X2210X |
Related Leadership Positions | 1. Committee member of AAOP Resident & Academic training since 2023 2. Mentorship Committee of AAOP Resident & Academic training – New |
Past Related Professional Roles | 1. 2012-2014: Researcher and Junior Scientist, Minnesota Dental Research Center for Biomaterials & Biomechanics (MDRCBB), School of Dentistry, University of Minnesota, USA 2. 2016-2017: Treatment Coordinator, Minnesota Head and Neck Pain Clinic, Plymouth, Minnesota |
Business Address | Minnesota Head & Neck Pain Clinic, PA 3475 Plymouth Blvd # 200 Minneapolis, MN 55447 |
Phone: | (763) 577-2484 (952) 892-6222 |
Additional Clinic Address | Minnesota Head & Neck Pain Clinic, PA 675 E Nicollet Blvd St 255 Burnsville, MN 55337 |
Dr. Preetanjali Thakur comes to us with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery. She subsequently completed a Fellowship in Orofacial Pain and Temporomandibular Disorders, and an advanced education clinical training residency in Temporomandibular Disorders at the University of Minnesota. Most recently, Dr Thakur completed her Master of Dental Science, also at the University of Minnesota. She is also a University of Minnesota Physicians provider and Fairview Health Care Provider. Within Minnesota Head and Neck Pain Clinic, Dr. Thakur treats both adults and children with TMJ and Orofacial pain disorders, neuropathic pain, burning mouth syndrome, and headaches. She works in conjunction with an interdisciplinary team of clinicians including top MN physical therapists, health psychologist, and physicians. Dr. Thakur works to coordinate and manage both simple and complex chronic pain disorders involving the jaw, face and head.
New Patient Consultation – Pain Management | New Patient Consultation – Dental Sleep Medicine |
Follow Up Visit – Dental Sleep Medicine | Follow Up Visit – Pain Management |
Trigger Point Injections | Telemedicine Healthcare |
Botox Injections for TMD | Botox Injections for Migraines |
Occlusal Orthotic Appliances – TMJ Splints | Oral Devices for Obstructive Sleep Apnea – Mandibular Advancement Devices |
As an orofacial pain specialist, my focus is on diagnosing and managing various conditions that affect the head, face, and neck region.
Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMD) management: | This encompasses a range of conditions affecting the jaw joint like jaw pain, jaw clicking or popping noises, limited jaw movement, inflammatory and degenerative conditions, rheumatological conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint, leading to pain, stiffness, and functional limitations. |
Myofascial Pain Syndrome: | Characterized by chronic muscle pain, tenderness, and trigger points in the muscles of the head, neck, and face |
Neuropathic Pain: | Conditions such as trigeminal neuralgia, trigeminal nerve disorders like persistent dentoalveolar pain, and neuritis can be intraoral and extraoral. |
Headaches: | This includes tension-type headaches, migraines, and cluster headaches, which may originate from structures within the head and neck. |
Sleep Disorders: | Such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and bruxism (teeth grinding), which can contribute to orofacial pain and discomfort. |
Chronic Pain Syndromes: | Comprehensive management of chronic pain syndromes that affect the orofacial region, often requiring a multidisciplinary approach. |
2016 to present | Member of American Academy of Orofacial Pain |
2018 to present | Fellow of the American Academy of Orofacial Pain |
2017 to present | Diplomat, American Board of Orofacial Pain |
2019 | Trainee member of International Association of Study of Pain (IASP) |
She also been involved in teaching Continuing Education (CE) courses and lectured residents at the School of Dentistry, the VA healthcare system, as well as fellow community members through study clubs. Additionally, she has been fortunate to contribute to the SPACE Randomized Clinical trial at the Center for Chronic Disease Outcomes Research (CCDOR) in VA Minneapolis, MN, USA. In addition, she is involved in various committees in American Academy of Orofacial Pain.
Dr. Thakur’s care philosophy centers around her patients. Inspired by William Osler’s belief that “the patient will tell you the diagnosis,” she values creating a comfortable space for patients to share their pain experiences. She customizes treatment plans to meet each individual’s unique needs, providing comprehensive, patient-centered support for those experiencing head and neck pain and dysfunction. As an Orofacial pain specialist, she emphasizes on accurate diagnosis through careful evaluation and evidence-based practice. Above all, she is dedicated to delivering compassionate care, building trusting relationships, alleviating pain, restoring function, and enhancing the overall quality of life. It is particularly gratifying for her when patients refer their family members and friends to her care.
Outside work I like to enjoy outdoor time with my family, my husband and two boys. I love to travel. Recently, I have been excited to downhill ski, which encourages the love for Minnesotan winters. Growing up amidst the Himalayan mountains in India instilled in me a love for trekking and hiking, pursuits that I still cherish to this day. I also enjoy yoga and Zumba and to have a great time with friends. I believe that great conversations are like chicken soup for the soul. In terms of certifications, I would like to continue to hone my skills in pain management and dental sleep medicine.