Pain Diagnosis & Management in Lincoln Park, IL

Persistent dental pain rarely resolves on its own. Whether you're experiencing a dull ache that lingers for days or sharp sensitivity that strikes when you bite down, your discomfort signals an underlying issue that requires professional attention. Identifying the source of your pain and receiving targeted treatment protects your oral health while restoring the comfort you need to eat, speak, and enjoy daily life.

At Floss Lincoln Park, our dental services include comprehensive pain diagnosis and management solutions designed to address the root cause of your discomfort. Dr. Delone Jouja and Dr. Martha Silva combine advanced diagnostic technology with years of clinical training to pinpoint the cause of your pain and develop effective treatment plans. Dr. Silva’s experience as a U.S. Army dentist provides unique insight into complex cases, while our practice’s focus on patient comfort ensures you receive care in a welcoming environment.

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Common Causes of Dental Pain

Understanding what creates dental discomfort helps you recognize when to seek professional care. Several conditions can trigger tooth and gum pain, each requiring specific treatment approaches, including:

  • Tooth decay: Decay progresses through the enamel layers and reaches the inner pulp, where nerves reside, causing sensitivity and throbbing pain.
  • Gum disease: Inflammation makes your gums tender, swollen, and prone to bleeding during routine brushing or flossing.
  • Cracked or fractured teeth: Fractures expose internal structures to temperature changes and pressure, causing sharp pain during everyday activities such as chewing.
  • Infections: Bacteria penetrate tooth structure through cavities or cracks, building pressure inside the tooth that causes constant aching.
  • Grinding or clenching: Nighttime bruxism can cause jaw soreness, headaches, and tooth sensitivity due to excessive wear. 

Each condition presents with distinct symptoms, but all require professional evaluation to prevent worsening damage.

How We Identify Pain Sources at Floss Lincoln Park

Accurate diagnosis forms the foundation for effective treatment. During your appointment, we review your symptoms, medical history, and recent changes in your oral health. Visual examinations reveal problems such as cavities, cracks, or gum recession, while digital X-rays reveal hidden issues beneath the surface, including decay between teeth, bone loss, or infections at the root of the tooth.

We perform specific tests to identify which tooth or area is causing your discomfort. Temperature testing measures sensitivity to hot and cold stimuli, while percussion testing involves gentle tapping to identify inflammation in the tooth’s supporting structures. These diagnostic methods help us distinguish among problems that require composite fillings, root canal therapy, gum disease treatment, or other interventions.

Our practice utilizes CEREC technology for same-day crown fabrication when needed, eliminating the wait time and temporary restorations associated with traditional lab-made crowns. This capability proves valuable when cracked teeth require immediate protection to prevent further damage and relieve pain.


Treatment Methods to Relieve Dental Pain

Your treatment plan depends entirely on the diagnosis we establish. Several conditions respond to specific interventions that address both symptoms and underlying causes.

Decay-related pain typically improves after we remove damaged tooth structure and place a restoration. Small cavities require only simple fillings, while deeper decay that extends into the pulp involves root canal therapy to remove infected tissue and seal the tooth. Gum disease treatment involves scaling and root planing to remove plaque and calculus beneath the gumline and allow tissues to heal.

Cracked teeth need coverage and support from dental crowns to prevent the fracture from worsening. Severe infections sometimes require extraction, followed by replacement options to maintain function and appearance. We discuss each treatment option thoroughly, explaining expected outcomes, recovery time, and associated costs so you can make informed decisions about your care.


Managing Emergency Dental Pain

Some situations require immediate attention rather than scheduled appointments. Knocked-out teeth, severe swelling that affects breathing or swallowing, uncontrolled bleeding, or intense pain that prevents sleep are all dental emergencies requiring prompt care.

When you contact our practice with an emergency, we provide immediate guidance on steps you can take at home while we arrange for you to come in quickly. Our team understands dental pain doesn’t follow convenient schedules, which is why we work to accommodate urgent situations and provide relief as rapidly as possible.


Preventing Future Dental Pain

Regular preventive care significantly reduces your risk of developing painful dental conditions. Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing once daily removes bacteria before they cause decay or gum disease. Professional cleanings every six months help us detect small problems before they progress into painful situations that require extensive treatment.

Custom nightguards protect teeth from damage caused by grinding or clenching during sleep. When we identify early decay, addressing it with a small filling prevents the need for root canal therapy later.

Find Relief from Your Dental Pain at Floss Lincoln Park

Dental pain diminishes your quality of life and often indicates progressive problems that worsen without treatment. At Floss Lincoln Park, we provide the diagnostic tools and clinical expertise needed to accurately identify pain sources and deliver effective solutions. Dr. Jouja and Dr. Silva work collaboratively to develop treatment plans that address your immediate discomfort while protecting your long-term oral health.

Schedule your appointment today by visiting our contact page to begin your path toward lasting comfort and improved dental health.

In-network with most PPO plans. We’ll work with your insurance to maximize your benefits and keep costs down.

CareCredit financing and in-house membership plans make quality dental care affordable for every budget.

No surprises. See upfront pricing on our services so you can plan with confidence and peace of mind.

Our Latest Reviews

Our Dentists

Dr. Delone Jouja, dentist at Floss Lincoln Park in Chicago

Dr. Delone Jouja

Dr. Jouja earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Midwestern University College of Dental Medicine-Illinois and brings years of comprehensive dental experience to Lincoln Park. His patient-centered approach combines advanced clinical training with a genuine commitment to creating comfortable, anxiety-free dental experiences for every individual under his care.

Dr. Martha Silva, dentist at Floss Lincoln Park in Chicago

Dr. Martha Silva

Dr. Silva earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Illinois College of Dentistry and served as an active duty dentist with the U.S. Army, gaining invaluable experience alongside various dental specialists. Dr. Silva brings exceptional expertise and a naturally warm approach to patient care.

Visit Us

Located at 1439 W Fullerton Ave in Lincoln Park, our modern dental practice provides comprehensive, patient-centered care to families throughout Lincoln Park and the surrounding Chicago neighborhoods. Led by Dr. Delone Jouja, our team treats every patient with genuine warmth and respect, creating a comfortable environment where you can feel confident in your dental care.

The information on this website has been medically reviewed by Dr. Jouja. However, it is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Every patient's dental needs are unique, and treatment outcomes may vary. We recommend scheduling a consultation to discuss your specific oral health concerns and determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your individual situation. Please call our office immediately at 773-697-8119 if you are experiencing a dental emergency.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

We’re dedicated to providing personalized, high-quality dental care in a comfortable environment. Our digital office, extended hours, and patient-centered approach make managing your oral health easier than ever. From routine cleanings to complex procedures, we’re here to help you achieve your healthiest smile.

Contact us today to schedule your appointment.

Our Office Information

Our opening hours

Monday to Friday:
7 AM - 7 PM
Saturday:
8 AM - 1 PM

Our Location

1439 W Fullerton Ave
ChicagoIL 60614

Hours

Monday 10 AM – 7 PM
Tuesday 10 AM – 7 PM
Wednesday 7 AM – 3 PM
Thursday 10 AM – 7 PM
Friday 7 AM – 2 PM
Saturday 8 AM – 1 PM