Individuals coming in to see the doctor complaining of mild to severe ear pain is common, but there are a variety of reasons why this type of pain requires special attention. Some patients may have acute discomfort that subsides after a few moments while others may be left unable to concentrate on other tasks because of the ongoing aches in or around the ears. Infections of the ear can be a culprit, but for some individuals, dental issues may be the cause. Whether an individual experiencing ear pain visits a specialist, a dentist, or their primary care doctor, it is necessary to understand what may be the reason behind the discomfort so that appropriate treatment can begin.