Dental emergencies never come at a convenient time. One minute you’re enjoying lunch or heading to a family gathering, and the next you’re faced with sudden tooth pain, a broken crown, or a knocked-out tooth. When these situations strike, knowing how to respond – and where to turn – can make all the difference.
At Lance Family Dental in Festus, MO, Dr. Brad Lance and our experienced team are committed to providing prompt, compassionate emergency dental care when you need it most. Whether you’re an existing patient or new to our office, we’re here to help relieve your discomfort and protect your oral health.
What Qualifies as a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency involves any issue requiring immediate attention to relieve severe pain, stop bleeding, or save a tooth. While not every dental issue is life-threatening, certain problems can quickly escalate without treatment. Common dental emergencies include:
Severe Toothache
Persistent or throbbing tooth pain could signal infection or decay. If the pain lasts more than a day or two – or is accompanied by swelling or fever – contact us right away.
Dental Abscess
An abscess is a painful infection near the root of a tooth or in the gums. Symptoms include swelling, pus, a bad taste in the mouth, or a bump on the gum. These infections can spread quickly and require prompt care.
Broken or Cracked Tooth
Cracks and fractures can affect both the surface and internal structure of your tooth. Rinse your mouth gently, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling, and contact our office immediately.
Knocked-Out Tooth
If a tooth is fully dislodged, time is critical. Gently rinse it (without scrubbing), try to place it back in the socket, or keep it moist in milk or saliva. Call us right away for the best chance of saving the tooth.
Lost Fillings or Crowns
While not always an emergency, a missing filling or crown can cause sensitivity or expose the tooth to further damage. We recommend scheduling an appointment as soon as possible.
Root Canal Infections
When the pulp of your tooth becomes infected, a root canal may be necessary. While it may not start as an emergency, untreated infections can cause severe pain and complications.
Tooth Extractions
If a tooth cannot be saved due to trauma or infection, extraction may be necessary. At Lance Family Dental, we ensure the process is as comfortable and pain-free as possible.
What to Do in a Dental Emergency
If you’re facing a dental emergency in Festus or surrounding areas, follow these steps:
- Stay Calm – Panicking can make things worse. Take deep breaths and assess the situation.
- Call Lance Family Dental – During business hours (Monday–Thursday), call (636) 937-9445 to be seen promptly. For after-hours concerns, our existing patients can reach the on-call doctor through our phone system.
- Manage Pain and Swelling – Apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth for swelling and take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed (avoid aspirin for knocked-out teeth as it may increase bleeding).
- Preserve Any Tooth Fragments – If a tooth or filling has broken or been knocked out, save the pieces and bring them with you to your appointment.
Why Festus Families Trust Lance Family Dental for Emergency Care
Dr. Brad Lance and our caring team understand how stressful a dental emergency can be. That’s why we strive to make your experience as efficient and comfortable as possible:
- Same-day emergency appointments are often available during regular office hours.
- We take time to explain your treatment options and provide pain relief fast.
- Our advanced diagnostic tools and gentle approach ensure you get the care you need without added stress.
Whether you’re experiencing intense pain, trauma, or a minor but urgent dental issue, we’ll help restore your smile and peace of mind.
Preventing Future Dental Emergencies
While some dental emergencies are unavoidable, many can be prevented with consistent oral hygiene and regular dental visits. Be sure to:
- Brush and floss daily
- Wear a mouthguard during sports
- Avoid chewing on hard items like ice or pens
- Visit our office twice a year for cleanings and exams
Contact Lance Family Dental for Emergency Dentistry in Festus, MO
Dental emergencies are never easy – but knowing who to call can make all the difference. At Lance Family Dental, we’re proud to be the trusted emergency dental provider for families across Festus, MO and the surrounding communities.
If you’re in pain or unsure whether your situation is an emergency, don’t wait. Contact us today or call (636) 937-9445 for expert, compassionate care when you need it most.