Neuralgia in teeth, also known as trigeminal neuralgia (TN) or tic douloureux, is a chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve. This nerve is responsible for transmitting sensations of pain and touch from the face, teeth, and mouth to the brain. The pain caused by TN is often felt in the jaw, teeth, or gums, and is described as sudden, severe, and sharp shooting, similar to an electric shock.

People with TN may first visit a dentist because the pain can be felt in the upper or lower jaw, cheeks, or mouth, and they may think they have a dental issue. However, if no dental cause can be found, the dentist may suggest visiting a primary care doctor. There is no specific test for TN, so a diagnosis is usually based on the patients symptoms and description of the pain.

TN may be caused by a blood vessel pressing on the trigeminal nerve, which causes the protective coating around the nerve to wear away or become damaged. It may also occur because of other underlying diseases, such as multiple sclerosis. Treatment for TN may include medications such as anticonvulsants or tricyclic antidepressants, or microvascular decompression surgery, which involves locating and moving the offending artery to take the pressure off the nerve.

In summary, neuralgia in teeth, or trigeminal neuralgia, is a chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve and causes sudden, severe, and sharp shooting pain in the jaw, teeth, or gums. It may be caused by a blood vessel pressing on the nerve or other underlying diseases, and treatment may include medications or surgery.