Had a Dental Emergency While Visiting Fort Lauderdale? Here's What to Do
Fort Lauderdale welcomes millions of visitors every year. Between the beaches, Las Olas Boulevard, Port Everglades cruise terminal, and the city's restaurants and nightlife, it is one of South Florida's top destinations. A dental emergency was not part of your plan, but it does not have to ruin your trip.
Do Not Panic: You Have Options
If you are visiting Fort Lauderdale and experiencing dental pain, a broken tooth, a lost crown, or any other dental emergency, you have access to same-day care. Our clinic is open every day of the week, including weekends and holidays, from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM. Walk-ins are welcome.
Our Clinic
Emergency Dentist of Fort Lauderdale
330 SW 13th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315
Open Monday to Sunday, 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Call: (954) 807-1840
We are located about 10 minutes from the beach, 10 minutes from Port Everglades, and 20 minutes from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). Major rideshare services operate throughout the area.
What to Bring
- Photo ID (passport, driver's license)
- Insurance card, if you have one
- Credit or debit card for payment
- Any medication you are currently taking (or a list of them)
- The broken piece of tooth or lost crown, if you have it
Out-of-State Insurance
Many dental insurance plans include out-of-network emergency benefits. This means you can be treated by any licensed dentist for an emergency, even if the dentist is not in your plan's network. Coverage varies by plan. Bring your insurance card and we will check your benefits before treatment.
If your plan does not cover out-of-network care, you will pay out of pocket at the time of service. We accept all major credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments. Ask for an itemized receipt to submit to your insurance company for potential reimbursement.
Travel Insurance and Dental Coverage
If you purchased travel insurance for your trip, check whether it includes emergency dental coverage. Many comprehensive travel insurance policies cover emergency dental treatment up to a specified limit (often $500 to $1,000). Your insurer may require you to call them before treatment; check your policy documents.
Cruise Ship Arrivals: Port Everglades
Port Everglades is one of the busiest cruise ports in the world. If you are arriving or departing from a cruise and develop a dental emergency, our clinic is approximately 3 miles away, about a 10-minute drive by car or rideshare.
Cruise ship medical centers carry pain medication and antibiotics but cannot perform dental procedures. If you crack a tooth, lose a filling, or develop an abscess while at sea, ask the ship's medical team for pain management and then visit us as soon as you dock.
Common Vacation Dental Emergencies
- Cracked tooth from food: Stone crab claws, hard candy, olive pits. Fort Lauderdale dining is fantastic, but watch out for the unexpected hard bits.
- Lost crown or filling: Temperature changes from cold drinks to hot sun can weaken the bond. Old restorations are especially vulnerable.
- Sports injuries: Beach volleyball, jet skiing, surfing. An active vacation means active risks.
- Toothache flare-up: Flying can exacerbate existing dental problems due to cabin pressure changes.
Read our full guide to things to do (and dental-safe tips) in our Fort Lauderdale Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a local resident to be treated?
No. We treat everyone, including tourists, cruise ship passengers, and visitors from other states or countries. You do not need to be an existing patient or have a local address.
Can I use my out-of-state insurance?
Many dental insurance plans have out-of-network benefits that cover emergency care regardless of location. Bring your insurance card and we will verify your coverage. Even if your plan does not cover out-of-network care, we accept credit cards and debit cards.
How close is the clinic to Port Everglades?
Our clinic at 330 SW 13th St is approximately 3 miles from Port Everglades, which is about 10 minutes by car or rideshare. If your cruise ship is docked and you have a dental emergency, we can see you the same day.