A description and attempt to classify the newly revised DSM-III and IASP classification schemes and those persistent orofacial pain syndromes that are commonly considered to be significantly associated with psychological or psychosocial factors, either as primary causes or as factors contributing to the maintenance of the chronic pain state are presented. The classification schemes include the DSM-III-R of the American Psychiatric Association and the new IASP taxonomy system, are the two systems currently available for classifying chronic orofacial pain states that are often considered to represent psychogenic pain conditions.