Oro-Facial Pain

pain in the trigeminal nerve distribution. Typically, brief attacks are triggered by talking,

chewing, teeth brushing, shaving, a light touch, or even a cool breeze. The pain is nearly always

unilateral, and it may occur repeatedly throughout the day. The diagnosis is typically determined

clinically, although imaging studies or referral for specialized testing may be necessary

to rule out other diseases. Accurate and prompt diagnosis is important because the pain of trigeminal

neuralgia can be severe. Carbamazepine is the drug of choice for the initial treatment

of trigeminal neuralgia; however, baclofen, gabapentin, and other drugs may provide relief

in refractory cases. Neurosurgical treatments may help patients in whom medical therapy is