When a Dental Emergency Strikes, We’re Here to Help
A cracked tooth, sudden swelling, or unbearable toothache can happen when you least expect it. In those moments, knowing what to do – and where to turn – can make all the difference in saving your tooth and preventing lasting damage.
At Dental Professionals of Dardenne, we’re here to provide urgent dental care in Dardenne Prairie, MO, when you need it most. Whether it’s a weekend toothache or a chipped tooth before an important event, Dr. Michael Gulley and Dr. Edward Logan are dedicated to restoring your comfort quickly and compassionately.
What Is Considered a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is any situation involving your teeth, gums, or mouth that requires immediate attention to stop pain, bleeding, or further damage. Common dental emergencies include:
- Severe toothache or swelling
- Broken, chipped, or fractured teeth
- Knocked-out (avulsed) teeth
- Lost or loose fillings, crowns, or bridges
- Bleeding or lacerations of the gums or lips
- Infection or abscess (often felt as swelling or throbbing pain)
- Broken dentures or oral appliances
If you’re unsure whether your situation counts as an emergency, it’s always best to call. Our team can help assess the urgency and get you seen as soon as possible.
What to Do During Common Dental Emergencies
1. Knocked-Out Tooth
- Act fast – time matters. If possible, pick up the tooth by the crown (not the root).
- Gently rinse it with clean water – do not scrub.
- Try to reinsert the tooth into its socket if you can, and bite gently on gauze to hold it in place.
- If that’s not possible, store the tooth in milk or a saline solution and contact our office immediately.
- Knocked-out teeth have the best chance of survival if reimplanted within 30–60 minutes.
2. Severe Toothache or Swelling
- Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to reduce irritation.
- Use a cold compress to minimize swelling.
- Avoid applying aspirin directly to the tooth or gums – it can cause burns.
- Persistent tooth pain often signals infection or decay that requires professional treatment. Call us as soon as possible for relief and evaluation.
3. Broken or Cracked Tooth
- Rinse gently with warm water to clear debris.
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
- Save any pieces of the tooth and bring them with you.
- Depending on the extent of the damage, treatment may involve bonding, a crown, or a root canal to restore function and prevent infection.
4. Lost Crown or Filling
- Keep the affected area clean and avoid chewing on that side.
- You can place a small amount of dental cement (available at pharmacies) into the cavity to protect the area temporarily.
- Bring the crown or filling to your appointment if you still have it.
- Our team can usually repair or replace it in one visit to restore comfort and function.
5. Bleeding or Soft Tissue Injury
If you experience bleeding after a dental injury:
- Rinse your mouth gently with water.
- Apply pressure using a clean gauze pad.
- Apply a cold compress to the outside of the mouth to reduce swelling.
- If bleeding persists beyond 15 minutes, seek immediate emergency care.
Why You Shouldn’t Delay Emergency Dental Treatment
Dental emergencies rarely resolve on their own. Waiting too long to seek care can lead to:
- Worsening pain or infection
- Permanent tooth loss
- Higher treatment costs
- Systemic health risks from untreated infection
Even a seemingly small issue – like a mild toothache or chipped enamel – can escalate quickly. Prompt care helps preserve your teeth and minimize future complications.
Our Approach to Emergency Dentistry
At Dental Professionals of Dardenne, we understand how stressful dental emergencies can be. That’s why we prioritize same-day appointments whenever possible, ensuring you’re not left waiting in pain.
Our emergency care includes:
- Immediate pain relief and assessment
- Digital X-rays for quick diagnosis
- Fast treatment for infection, trauma, or damage
- Restorations (fillings, crowns, bonding) to repair your smile
- Follow-up care to ensure full recovery
We combine advanced technology with a gentle, compassionate approach so you can feel comfortable even in urgent situations.
How to Prevent Dental Emergencies
While not every accident can be avoided, you can significantly reduce your risk with a few simple habits:
- Schedule regular dental checkups to catch small problems early.
- Wear a mouthguard during sports or physical activity.
- Avoid chewing hard objects like ice, pens, or popcorn kernels.
- Don’t use your teeth as tools to open bottles or packaging.
- Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent decay and gum disease that weaken teeth.
Prevention is always better than a last-minute trip to the dentist – but when emergencies happen, we’re ready.
Emergency Care for the Whole Family
From toddlers to grandparents, dental emergencies can affect anyone. That’s why our practice is designed for family care, ensuring every member of your household receives quick, attentive treatment.
We’re equipped to handle:
- Pediatric emergencies (such as chipped or knocked-out baby teeth)
- Adult dental trauma from sports or accidents
- Restorative emergencies like broken dentures or implants
- Pain management for patients of all ages
You’ll always receive gentle, personalized care – no matter the situation.
Your Trusted Emergency Dentist in Dardenne Prairie
When a dental emergency strikes, you need more than a quick fix – you need a team you can trust. Dr. Gulley and Dr. Logan combine experience, compassion, and advanced technology to provide fast, effective solutions for patients in Dardenne Prairie, O’Fallon, and Lake St. Louis.
We’re committed to making sure you never face dental pain alone.
Call Now for Same-Day Emergency Dental Care
If you’re experiencing pain, swelling, or damage to your teeth, don’t wait. The sooner you get treatment, the better your chances of saving your tooth and restoring your health.
Contact Dental Professionals of Dardenne today for prompt, gentle emergency dental care in Dardenne Prairie, MO – we’ll get you smiling again in no time.