Post-Traumatic Facial Pain

Conditions We Treat

What is Post-Traumatic Facial Pain?

Post-Traumatic Facial Pain is often a type of neuropathic pain affecting the trigeminal nerves. Neuropathic pain affecting the trigeminal nerve is a complex chronic condition stemming from nerve injury or dysfunction within the trigeminal system. This condition, known as Post-Traumatic Trigeminal Neuropathic Pain (PTTN), poses a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge for both dentists and pain clinicians. PTTN can arise due to trauma to the face or oral cavity, even in some cases stemming from minimally invasive, routine dental procedures like routine cleanings, root canal therapy and minor surgical procedures such as dental extractions. endodontic therapy, extractions. This type of pain is a complex interplay of peripheral and central neurological changes. Factors like hormonal fluctuations, genetics, microbial infections, and behavioural patterns can influence its development. While the exact mechanisms within the trigeminal system are still being understood, studies have shown that certain individuals may also be genetically predisposed and more likely to develop Post-Traumatic Trigeminal Neuropathic Pain.

How Do I Know if I have Post-Traumatic Facial Pain?

Post-Traumatic Facial Pain is characterized by continuous aching, stinging, or burning sensations with minimal relief and very few pain-free intervals. Patients may experience allodynia (increased, painful response to light touch) and hyperalgesia (heightened response to potentially painful stimuli). The pain is often described as constant and can persist for years if untreated. Diagnosing post traumatic facial pain is through a very comprehensive examination that often utilises a series of different tests to help eliminate other potential sources of facial pain and tooth-related pain, such as root fractures or infections.

Can anything be done to Help my Pain?

At NCOFP, Dr. Neysan Chah and our team are committed to understanding and addressing neuropathic pain conditions affecting the trigeminal nerve. We understand that no two patients are alike and are focussed on curating a pain management strategy that is tailored to the unique needs of each patient and adapting them to evolve with their pain management journey. When it comes to helping patients with management of neuropathic pain, a comprehensive examination and evaluation is a key starting point. Once the source of the pain has been ascertained, there are a number of pain management strategies that can be utilised to help manage the symptoms of neuropathic pain. These management strategies aim to alleviate symptoms and improve patients' quality of life, considering individual tolerances and contraindications to medications.

For many patients, medication management forms an effective strategy that can be utilised either in isolation or in conjunction with other treatment modalities. While medications are commonly used, they may not be suitable for everyone. In such cases, local or regional nerve blocks can help provide relief. In many cases, a collaborative multi-disciplinary approach ensures a holistic approach to managing neuropathic pain. As part of your pain management plan, Dr. Chah also liases closely with your physician and dentist since there may be additional considerations that may need to be addressed to help prevent exacerbating the existing pain when it comes to maintenance of dental health and any dental treatments that may be necessary in the future.

If you have been suffering with facial nerve pain, it is crucial to seek an orofacial pain management consultation as soon as possible to ensure that measures are put in place to best help manage your symptoms and reduce the likelihood of the pain being exacerbated in the future.