Overview
Trigeminal nerve block is a targeted treatment used to reduce facial pain caused by irritation of the trigeminal nerve. This nerve divides into three main branches that supply sensation to the forehead, cheeks, and jaw. When the nerve becomes irritated or compressed, it can cause severe facial pain, sharp shooting sensations, burning discomfort, or sensitivity to touch.
Symptoms may be persistent or occur in sudden bursts and may be triggered by talking, chewing, brushing teeth, or light contact with the face. Trigeminal nerve block aims to calm nerve irritation, reduce sensitivity, and interrupt pain signals.
The procedure may be used both diagnostically to confirm the source of pain and therapeutically to provide relief.
Who this treatment helps
Trigeminal nerve block may be considered for people with:
- Trigeminal neuralgia
- Facial pain affecting the forehead, cheek, or jaw
- Pain triggered by talking, chewing, or touching the face
- Burning or electric shock sensations in the face
- Pain following dental procedures or facial trauma
- Persistent symptoms despite medication
A consultation is required to confirm suitability and identify which branch of the trigeminal nerve is involved.
What is a trigeminal nerve block
A trigeminal nerve block is a minimally invasive procedure that targets one or more branches of the trigeminal nerve. The injection is placed close to the nerve as it exits the skull or along specific anatomical pathways depending on the location of symptoms.
The injection usually contains local anaesthetic, sometimes combined with steroid medication. Local anaesthetic provides temporary numbing and helps confirm the source of pain, while steroid medication may help reduce inflammation over a longer period.
Ultrasound or fluoroscopy using X ray guidance may be used to improve accuracy and safety during the procedure.
What to expect during the procedure
- Your consultant reviews the treatment plan and answers any final questions
- You lie comfortably on the procedure table
- The skin over the target area is cleaned and numbed
- Using imaging guidance, a fine needle is positioned near the affected nerve branch
- A small amount of contrast dye may be used to confirm placement
- Local anaesthetic with or without steroid medication is injected
- You are monitored briefly before going home the same day
The procedure typically takes around 10 to 20 minutes.
After the procedure
- Temporary numbness in part of the face is expected and usually settles within hours
- Mild drooping of the eyelid or lip may occur temporarily depending on the nerve branch treated
- Some soreness at the injection site is normal
- Pain relief may occur quickly due to local anaesthetic
- Steroid effects may develop gradually over several days
- Most people resume normal activities the next day while avoiding strenuous activity for 24 hours
Benefits
- May reduce facial pain and trigeminal neuralgia symptoms
- Can help confirm whether the trigeminal nerve is the source of pain
- May improve comfort during eating, speaking, and daily activity
- Minimally invasive with a short recovery time
- May support medication or rehabilitation strategies
- Can guide suitability for further targeted treatments
Possible risks and side effects
Trigeminal nerve block is generally safe when performed by experienced clinicians, although some side effects may occur.
- Temporary facial numbness or weakness
- Mild bruising or soreness
- Light headedness
- Headache
- Infection or bleeding, which are rare
- Very rare nerve irritation
Your consultant will explain individual risks and suitability during your assessment.
When to consider other options
If symptoms persist or the response is limited, your consultant may discuss sphenopalatine ganglion block, occipital nerve block, medication review, jaw or physiotherapy based rehabilitation, or other targeted procedures depending on the cause of facial pain.
Safety note
Please inform your consultant if you take blood thinning medication, have allergies, diabetes, active infection, are pregnant, or have had previous reactions to steroid or local anaesthetic. Depending on the medication used you may need someone to drive you home after the procedure.
Arrange a consultation to discuss whether trigeminal nerve block may be appropriate for your facial pain.
You can also explore our head and face pain treatments, view all pain treatments, or learn more about our pain management services.