Your face hurts. Not just any pain — an electric shock, a flash of lightning across your jaw. It comes without warning. It stops you in your tracks.
That is trigeminal neuralgia. And it is one of the most excruciating conditions known to medicine.
What Is the Trigeminal Nerve?
Your trigeminal nerve runs across your face in three branches. It controls sensation in your forehead, cheek, and jaw. When this nerve malfunctions, it sends intense pain signals for no reason.
Imagine a wire that short-circuits. That is what happens with trigeminal neuralgia.
What Does It Feel Like?
Most patients describe it as a sudden, sharp shock on one side of the face. It can feel like a burning or stabbing pain. It often affects the jaw, teeth, or gums.
Attacks can last a few seconds or up to two minutes. They can happen dozens of times a day.
What Triggers an Attack?
Everyday actions can set it off. Chewing, speaking, smiling, brushing your teeth. Even a cool breeze on your face.
This is why many patients first visit a dentist. The pain feels like a toothache.
How Do Dentists Help?
Dentists are often the first professionals to suspect trigeminal neuralgia. We rule out dental causes first. If your teeth and gums look healthy, we refer you for proper diagnosis.
A neurologist confirms the diagnosis. Treatment may include medication, injections, or surgery.
When to See a Dentist
See us if you have unexplained facial pain that comes and goes. We will examine your mouth and teeth. We will find out what is causing your pain.
Do not suffer in silence. Call 01323 723757 or book at www.meadsdental.com
Meads Village Dental Practice