Trigeminal Neuralgia Or Toothache – How To Tell The Difference And What To Do Next

If you're experiencing facial pain or toothache, it's important to determine whether it's caused by trigeminal neuralgia or a dental issue. Patients are advised to visit a reputable hospital or dental clinic for a comprehensive oral examination. A proper diagnosis is crucial, as the treatment approach will vary depending on the underlying cause. Here's a detailed breakdown of how each condition is identified and treated:

Understanding Trigeminal Neuralgia

Trigeminal neuralgia is a chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, which carries sensation from your face to your brain. If your dentist suspects this condition, they will begin by reviewing your medical history and evaluating your symptoms. Characteristic signs include sudden, sharp, electric-like pain typically triggered by simple activities like brushing your teeth or chewing.

As part of the diagnostic process, your dentist may take X-rays or other imaging scans to rule out dental-related causes of pain. They may also perform a nerve branch localization test to confirm whether the trigeminal nerve is involved. If trigeminal neuralgia is diagnosed, dental procedures such as tooth extraction are not recommended, as they won't address the real source of the discomfort.

Treatment Options For Trigeminal Neuralgia

Initially, doctors often prescribe anticonvulsant medications like carbamazepine to help manage nerve pain. If medication proves ineffective over time, alternative treatments may be considered, including radiofrequency thermal lesioning or microvascular decompression surgery performed by a neurosurgeon.

Identifying Dental-Related Pain

On the other hand, if your toothache is due to a dental condition such as pulpitis, periapical inflammation, or periodontal disease, the treatment will focus on addressing the specific oral health problem. For example, if dental caries (cavities) are the cause, restorative treatment like fillings or root canal therapy may be necessary.

Common Dental Treatments For Tooth Pain

If dental hypersensitivity is to blame, your dentist may recommend desensitizing agents or bonding agents to reduce discomfort. In cases of gingivitis or periodontitis, professional cleaning and periodontal therapy may be required. For pericoronitis caused by impacted wisdom teeth, removal of the affected tooth or localized treatment may be necessary to relieve pain and prevent recurrence.