Dental pain takes many forms. It can be dull and mild or excruciatingly sharp. However it manifests, its message is the same: something is wrong.
Similarly, whether you’re dealing with moderate discomfort, sharp sensitivity, or constant throbbing, this discomfort can disrupt your daily life. Knowing what’s behind your pain and when to seek care can go a long way toward helping you protect your smile and oral health.
What is Dental Pain? Defining the Discomfort
In addition to the teeth, dental pain refers to discomfort originating from the gums, surrounding tissues, and sometimes the jaw. It can feel sharp, dull, constant, and if often accompanied by increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks. Sometimes the pain is localized; other times, it radiates to the jaw or ear.
Common Causes of Dental Pain
The primary cause of dental pain can vary from case to case. The most common culprits include:
- Cavities: Holes in the enamel that expose the tooth’s sensitive inner layers to potential infection and decay if left untreated.
- Cracking or chipping: Damage from injury or chronic teeth grinding (bruxism) can create fissures in the enamel and expose nerves.
- Gum disease: Inflammation or infection in the gums can cause aching and swelling.
- Dental abscess: An infected pocket at the gumline that can lead to intense, throbbing pain and requires immediate care.
- Tooth sensitivity: Worn enamel or receding gums can expose nerves and make teeth overly reactive.
- Impacted wisdom teeth: These “third molars” can press on nerves or crowd other teeth.
When to Seek Professional Help for a Dental Emergency in Milwaukee
If you experience swelling, fever, bleeding, intense pain, or pus near the tooth or gums, you are likely facing a dental emergency. Delaying treatment could lead to worsening infections or tooth loss. Don’t wait! An emergency dentist in the West Allis and Milwaukee areas can provide fast, effective relief via dental bonding, new dental fillings, or root canal therapy.
Effective Same-Day Emergency Dental Care in Milwaukee and West Allis, WI
Whether it's a damaged filling or a serious infection, Dr. Robert Feinman and our caring team at Urgent Dental Care in West Allis are here to help! If you’re in Milwaukee and want to learn more about dental pain relief and fast emergency treatment, contact us today to schedule your consultation!