How to Handle Dental Emergencies While Traveling

Here’s the thing—your teeth don’t know you’re on vacation. A cracked filling, sudden pain, or knocked-out tooth doesn’t pause just because you’re in another country. And when you’re unfamiliar with your surroundings or don’t speak the language, something small can feel overwhelming.

But don’t panic. With the right knowledge (and a little prep), you can handle dental surprises calmly and confidently.

Let’s look at some of the most common issues that can happen when you’re away from home—and what to do about them.

1. Toothache

A sudden toothache can be caused by anything from a cavity to sinus pressure. It might be dull or sharp, constant or intermittent.

What to do:

• Rinse your mouth with warm water.
  
• Gently floss around the sore tooth to remove anything that might be stuck.
  
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
  
• Avoid applying aspirin directly to the tooth—it can burn the tissue.
  
• If the pain persists for more than a day or worsens, it’s time to find a local dentist.
  

2. Broken, Chipped, or Cracked Tooth

Biting into something hard or falling can cause this. It may not always hurt, but it can get worse if left untreated.

What to do:

• Rinse with warm water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
  
• Cover the sharp edge with dental wax or sugar-free gum to avoid cutting your tongue or cheek.
  
• Avoid using the damaged tooth to chew.
  
• Find a local dentist—especially if the crack is deep or painful.
  

3. Lost Filling or Crown

It’s not uncommon for old dental work to come loose while traveling, especially if you’re chewing sticky foods or grinding your teeth in your sleep.

What to do:

• Keep the crown if it comes off—dentists can sometimes reattach it.
  
• Use over-the-counter dental cement or even a piece of sugar-free gum to temporarily cover the exposed area.
  
• Avoid hot, cold, or sweet foods that could cause sensitivity.
  
• Seek professional help as soon as you can.
  

4. Knocked-Out Tooth

This one’s scary, but time is critical here. The sooner you act, the better the chances of saving the tooth.

What to do:

• Hold the tooth by the crown, not the root.
  
• If it’s dirty, rinse it gently with water—don’t scrub or use soap.
  
• Try to place it back in the socket, facing the correct direction. If that’s not possible, place it in milk or your own saliva (not water).
  
• Get to a dentist within 30 minutes.
  
  

5. Bleeding or Swollen Gums

This could be caused by brushing too hard, gum disease, or an abscess.

What to do:

• Rinse with warm salt water.
  
• Avoid flossing or brushing the affected area too aggressively.
  
• Take anti-inflammatory meds if there’s swelling.
  

If swelling or bleeding continues, find a dentist.

Dental emergencies don’t have to ruin your trip. With just a little preparation, you can feel more in control no matter where you are.

1. Schedule a Checkup Before You Leave

The best way to avoid emergencies is prevention. Try to schedule a dental visit 2–4 weeks before your trip. That way, you have time to fix any small issues before they become big problems.

2. Pack a Dental Emergency Kit

You don’t need anything fancy. Just toss these into your travel bag:

• Floss
  
• Travel-size mouthwash
  
• Over-the-counter pain relievers
  
• Dental wax (great for braces or chipped teeth)
  
• Temporary dental cement (found at most drugstores)
  
• Gauze
  
• Salt packets (for rinses)
  
• A small container (in case you need to save a knocked-out tooth)
  

3. Know Where to Get Help Abroad

• Look up dental clinics near your hotel or travel destination before you arrive.
  
• Check if your travel insurance includes dental coverage and what it covers.
  
• If you’re traveling internationally, see if your embassy or hotel concierge can recommend an English-speaking dentist.
  

4. Use Translation Apps

If you’re heading to a country where you don’t speak the language, translation apps like Google Translate can be a huge help in explaining symptoms or understanding treatment options.

Most standard dental insurance plans don’t cover international treatment. However, some travel insurance plans include dental emergency coverage. It’s worth checking the fine print and choosing a policy that includes at least basic emergency dental care.

If you don’t have coverage, don’t avoid getting help—especially in serious cases. Many countries offer affordable dental care even without insurance, and some cities have clinics that cater to tourists or expats.

Even if your emergency was treated abroad, follow up with your regular dentist when you return. They can make sure everything was done correctly and check for any additional treatment you might need.

Dental emergencies while traveling are never fun—but they don’t have to ruin your trip. By staying calm, knowing what steps to take, and preparing just a little before you go, you’ll be able to handle most situations with confidence.

Think of it this way: You wouldn’t travel without packing a first-aid kit. So why not include a few simple items for your teeth, too? A little planning can make all the difference between a stressful detour and a small bump in the road.

Safe travels—and here’s to a happy, healthy smile wherever life takes you!