Dental nerve damage can cause anything from occasional sensitivity to persistent pain, numbness, or discomfort when eating. It may develop because of deep tooth decay, dental trauma, infection, or irritation following certain dental procedures. Because several dental conditions can cause similar symptoms, identifying the underlying problem is important before deciding on treatment. Understanding the symptoms of dental nerve damage, available treatment options, and the expected recovery process can help you know when professional dental care is needed. What Is Dental Nerve Damage? Dental nerve damage refers to injury, irritation, or inflammation affecting the nerve and blood supply inside a tooth or, in some situations, nerves in the tissues surrounding the mouth. The dental pulp contains nerves and blood vessels that help keep a tooth alive and responsive. A dental nerve injury can occur when the pulp is exposed to bacteria, affected by trauma, or irritated during dental treatme...