Infraorbital and mental nerve blocks are targeted injections used to manage chronic facial pain by interrupting pain signals from specific branches of the trigeminal nerve. These minimally invasive treatments can bring relief to patients suffering from conditions like trigeminal neuralgia, post-herpetic neuralgia, or persistent pain after dental or facial procedures. By delivering anesthetic near these nerves, the treatment calms irritation and reduces localized facial discomfort.
These injections are quick, outpatient procedures that can provide rapid symptom relief with minimal side effects. For many patients, they serve as an effective tool for improving daily comfort and restoring quality of life.
What is it?
These nerve blocks target specific facial nerves to treat various types of facial pain, including trigeminal neuralgia and post-herpetic neuralgia.
How is it performed?
Using precise anatomical landmarks and sometimes ultrasound guidance, local anesthetic is injected near the infraorbital or mental nerve. Each injection takes about 10-15 minutes.
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Treatment Benefits
Nerve blocks of the infraorbital or mental nerves offer precise, localized pain relief with little to no recovery time. They can reduce facial sensitivity, burning, or sharp nerve pain that has not responded to oral medications. When successful, these injections may also be used diagnostically to help identify the specific source of facial pain.
Who Can Benefit From This Treatment
This treatment is commonly recommended for individuals with chronic facial pain related to trigeminal neuralgia, post-shingles nerve pain, or facial trauma. It may also be beneficial for patients with persistent discomfort after dental work or maxillofacial surgery. A thorough evaluation helps determine whether targeting the infraorbital or mental nerve is appropriate for your specific symptoms.
Learn more about Infraorbital and Mental Nerve Blocks by contacting the Minimally Invasive Spine and Pain Institute—our team is here to help you explore your options.
Aftercare for Infraorbital and Mental Nerve Blocks
Following an infraorbital or mental nerve block, temporary numbness or tingling in the cheek, upper lip, or chin is normal and typically wears off within a few hours. Mild soreness at the injection site may occur but generally resolves quickly. Most patients are able to resume normal activities shortly after the procedure. As the anesthetic wears off, pain relief may continue to improve over the next day or two.
Tips for a Smooth Recovery
Follow these guidelines to support healing after infraorbital or mental nerve blocks:
• Avoid touching or massaging the treated area while it’s numb
• Refrain from eating hot foods until sensation returns to avoid accidental injury
• Use ice packs if mild swelling or soreness develops at the injection site
• Maintain good oral and facial hygiene to prevent irritation
• Contact your provider if numbness persists longer than expected or if unusual symptoms arise