Herpes zoster (shingles) is an acute viral infection caused by reactivation of varicella zoster virus, generally occurs in adults and characterised by vesicular rash in a unilateral dermatomal distribution associated with neuropathy. Diagnosis typically based on signs and symptoms. Prodromal stage of herpes zoster involving trigeminal nerve may present as odontalgia, leading to misdiagnosis and delayed treatment. This article aimed to describe a case of herpes zoster preceded by odontalgia as a prodromal symptom. Dentists are urged to suspect odontalgia as early sign of trigeminal herpes zoster. A 68-year-old male complained of left side facial numbness for the last six days, preceded by pain on the upper left premolar tooth that did not relieve after taking medication (potassium diclofenac, me- fenamic acid, clindamycin) and open bur treatment. The examination revealed unilateral facial crusting as well as intraoral ulceration along the course of the first and second division of trigeminal nerve dermatome. The diagnosis was trigeminal herpes zoster. The patient was managed with oral and topical acyclovir for the infection, prednisone and vitamin B complex combined with paracetamol for the neuropathy, chlorhexidine gluconate 0,2 % oral rinse for the intraoral ulceration. The patient was also referred to a neurologist and ophthalmologist for further evaluation. Odontalgia can be the prodromal stage of trigeminal herpes zoster. Timely diagnosis can improve patient outcomes, prevent complications, and avoid unnecessary treatment.