Hi Jenn I didn't know what I was having, except discomfort when I was eating. So I went to the dentist and she suggested that I was having pain in that area, my upper tooth on the left side, because stuff was getting in from the back of the tooth and dropping into my tooth and that was the pain I was feeling. That tooth had to be removed, according to her. Well I got up and said that was the most idiotic explanation I ever heard and left, never to return to that office again. Later as the pain became more intense I seek a neurologist in my health group and he explained to me without touching me, that I had Trigeminal Neuralgia. He then proceeded to tell me how it would all play out, he was right on and prescribed my first medication. I did my research then about my way of dealing with the pain and lived my life until I had none. I got the surgery, after I found the doctor I felt was my best choice and I am 1000 % better. I keep stressing this point that you are your best advocate for what you have or need and pursue that first, if you feel adamant as I felt, do your homework and get all the information that YOU need and then decide with all that info, what is the best course for you. I hope that helps you in your journey to a solution of what you are going through.