Dental Emergencies in California — What to Do & Where to Go

What to Do in a Dental Emergency

This information is for general awareness only and not a substitute for professional dental care.

• Severe toothache: Rinse with warm water, floss gently, take over-the-counter pain relievers as directed.
• Broken or chipped tooth: Rinse with warm water, apply a cold compress, and save any tooth pieces.
• Knocked-out tooth: Handle by the crown only, rinse gently, try to reinsert or store in milk, and seek immediate dental care.
• Dental abscess: Rinse with warm salt water and seek urgent dental care — abscesses can be dangerous if left untreated.

Where to Find Emergency Dental Care in California

🏥 Option 1: Hospitals with Dental Departments

Major hospitals in California may offer emergency dental or oral surgery services. Always call ahead to confirm availability.

• UCLA Medical Center (Los Angeles) — Emergency oral surgery, 24/7
• UC San Francisco Medical Center (San Francisco) — Dental trauma and oral surgery
• UC Davis Medical Center (Sacramento) — Emergency oral and maxillofacial services

🦷 Option 2: Community Dental Clinics

Many Medi-Cal and Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) offer same-day or urgent dental appointments:

• DHCS Medi-Cal Dental Provider Directory
• HRSA Find a Health Center

💬 Option 3: Private Emergency Dental Clinics

Private 24/7 dental centers operate in many California cities. Use our Dentistas California Directory to find providers offering "Urgencias Dentales" in your area.

Preventing Dental Emergencies

• Maintain good daily oral hygiene
• Wear mouthguards during sports
• Avoid biting hard objects
• Visit a dentist regularly
• Don't use your teeth as tools