Trigeminal Neuralgia
Sudden facial pain that’s more than just a twinge.
At Advanced TMJ Maxillofacial Pain & Sleep Center, we understand how debilitating facial nerve pain can be—especially when it strikes without warning. Trigeminal Neuralgia is one of the most painful conditions we treat, and we’re here to help you find lasting relief.
What Is Trigeminal Neuralgia?
Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN), also called “tic douloureux,” is a chronic pain condition affecting the trigeminal nerve—the main sensory nerve for your face. TN causes sudden, severe, electric shock-like or stabbing pain on one side of the face, often triggered by everyday activities.
What are the common symptoms of Trigeminal Neuralgia
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Sudden bursts of sharp, shooting, or electric-like pain
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Pain on one side of the face—typically the cheek, jaw, lips, gums, or around the eye
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Attacks lasting seconds to minutes, often occurring in clusters
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Triggered by touch, chewing, brushing teeth, wind, or talking
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Fear or anxiety about triggering the next attack
Why It’s Often Misdiagnosed
Trigeminal Neuralgia is commonly mistaken for:
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Tooth pain
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Root canal failure
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TMJ dysfunction
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Crack tooth syndrome
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Post-extraction infection
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Sinus issues or cluster headaches
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Psychosomatic or anxiety-related symptoms
Unfortunately, many patients undergo unnecessary dental procedures or spend years misdiagnosed before seeing a facial pain specialist.
Diagnosis at Our Center
At our Seattle-based specialty clinic, we take the time to listen to your story. Diagnosis involves:
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A detailed clinical history and symptom mapping
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Sensory testing and facial nerve evaluation
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Advanced imaging if necessary to rule out nerve compression or vascular causes
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Collaboration with neurologists or neurosurgeons if needed
Treatment Options We Offer
We use a non-surgical, personalized approach to help manage TN and reduce flare-ups:
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Medications like carbamazepine, oxcarbazepine, or low-dose tricyclics
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Trigger zone protection through neurosensory stents or custom oral appliances
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Low-Level Laser Therapy (Photobiomodulation) for nerve modulation
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BOTOX Therapy for nerve trigger
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Peripheral nerve blocks for immediate and long-term relief
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Nutritional and lifestyle counseling for neural health
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Referrals for microvascular decompression (MVD) when surgical options are appropriate
Why Choose Advanced TMJ?
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Led by Dr. Hemamalini Chandrashekhar, a board-certified Orofacial Pain Specialist adn a Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon with training in both dentistry and surgery.
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Non-invasive, evidence-based care tailored to your unique presentation
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Conveniently located in Seattle, serving Bellevue, Shoreline, Kent, and surrounding communities
Let’s talk. Relief is possible— with the right diagnosis and care. Book with us TODAY!
