In August of 1985, the original founders of the American Academy of Head, Neck & Facial Pain (now known as the "American Academy of Craniofacial Pain") met in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and ratified the documents that laid the foundation for the creation of the "American Board of Head, Neck & Facial Pain, which is now known as the "American Board of Craniofacial Pain."

Today, as always, the ABCP's sole purpose is to identify, guide, and examine candidates for Diplomate status and to help them complete their credentialing process so that they may a) fulfill the needs of the public and the profession for such certified individuals, and b) promote the high standard of excellence required to treat patients experiencing craniofacial pain, TMD, and sleep-disordered breathing problems.