Nerve Pain Specialists

Orofacial Nerve Pain and Neuralgias

Neuropathic orofacial pain is indicative of complex conditions affecting the nerves in the face and in and around the mouth, which can cause severe, often debilitating discomfort that significantly impacts one's quality of life. Those suffering from this type of pain may report constant or intermittent discomfort that ranges in intensity from mild to severe. The pain may also express itself in various ways— as a continuous burning, aching, electrical shock-like, or stabbing pain. Plus, simple stimuli such as touch, temperature changes, or specific movements can set off the pain.

Neuropathic or nerve-related orofacial pain remains somewhat of a mystery, with a range of potential causes—some well-known and others still unclear. As a board certified and residency-trained orofacial pain specialist, Dr. Shanna Kim provides the expert care to diagnose, treat, and manage these conditions.

Some conditions associated with orofacial nerve pain include:

• Atypical Odontalgia
• Auriculotemporal Neuralgia
• Glossopharyngeal Neuralgia
• Nervus Intermedius Neuralgia
• Post-traumatic Neuralgia
• Trigeminal Neuralgia
• Trigeminal Neuropathy

Diagnosis, Management, & Treatment

With all the complex underlying causes and manifestations of symptoms, understanding orofacial neuropathic pain and neuralgias is crucial for proper diagnosis and effective management. 

Dr. Kim employs a comprehensive approach to diagnosis, including taking a detailed medical and dental history and performing a thorough clinical and neurological assessment. She may also recommend various diagnostic tests such as imaging studies (MRI, CT scans) and sensory testing to identify the specific nerve condition and rule out other potential reasons like nerve compression or tumor. Diagnostic nerve blocks may also help to determine the source of pain.

Treating orofacial nerve pain sometimes requires a multidisciplinary approach to ensure the most accurate diagnosis and effective care. In these cases, Dr. Kim partners closely with a patient's healthcare team, including neurologists, pain management physicians, physical therapists, and mental health professionals. 

Treatment options may include:

Treatment plans are typically multifaceted and tailored to the individual needs. Dr. Kim may recommend a combination of pharmacological interventions (such as anticonvulsants, antidepressants, or topical medications), non-pharmacological therapies (including physical therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, or acupuncture), and in some cases, surgical interventions or nerve blocks. The goal is to manage pain effectively while minimizing side effects and improving the patient's overall quality of life.