Signs and symptoms
... An attack of trigeminal neuralgia can last from a few seconds to about a minute. Some people have mild, occasional twinges of pain, while other people have frequent, severe, electric-shock-like pain. ...

Causes
... The condition is called trigeminal neuralgia because the painful facial areas are those served by one or more of three branches of the trigeminal nerve. This large nerve originates deep inside your br...

When to seek medical advice
... Some people mistake the pain of trigeminal neuralgia for a toothache or a headache. It''s not uncommon for people to believe that their facial pain is dental-related, particularly when the pain seems ...

Screening and diagnosis
... If you''ve gone to your dentist, an examination of your mouth can reveal whether a problem with your teeth or gums is causing your pain. If you''ve gone to your doctor, he or she will want to ask abou...