Table 4 Thematic framework; themes and subthemes on basis of the analysis

Theme 1: Chronic OFP complaints before TMD-pain treatment

 1. OFP complaints and course

 2. Impact on daily life, work, other activities, and sleep

 3. Patient’s own idea about the cause of chronic OFP

Theme 2: History of treatments of chronic OFP before TMD-pain treatment

 1. Medical treatments’ history

 2. Dental treatments’ history

Theme 3: Experiences with TMD-pain treatment

 1. Experience of getting diagnosed with TMD pain

 2. Experience with interprofessional team

 3. Experience with OFP specialist

 4. Experience with the occlusal splint

 5. Experience with orofacial physiotherapist

 6. Experience with speech therapist

 7. Experience with psychologist

Theme 4: Bruxism and other oral behaviours

 1. Bruxism and other oral behaviours before TMD-pain treatment

 2. Bruxism and other oral behaviours during TMD-pain treatment

 3. Bruxism and other oral behaviours after TMD-pain treatment

Theme 5: Chronic OFP complaints after TMD-pain treatment

 1. Start of long-lasting pain reduction

 2. OFP reduction

 3. Current pain medication

 4. Thoughts of patients about the cause of chronic OFP after TMD-pain treatment

Theme 6: Patient’s perspective on improving chronic OFP care

 1. OFP knowledge among medical and dental professionals

 2. History of invasive treatments for OFP

 3. Interprofessional team