If you’re in pain while traveling

Take a deep breath and notice where the pain is coming from, then try not to chew on that side and stick to soft foods at a comfortable temperature. Gently keep the area clean, but do not force brushing or flossing if it hurts. Make a note of when the pain started and any medicines or allergies you have, and look for urgent dental care in Buenos Aires if the pain or swelling gets worse.

Insurance and seeing a dentist

Most of our treatments are covered by insurance companies. This is the case, since most people who are insured when traveling or living abroad, are as well insured for medical or dental emergencies. Nevertheless and just to be sure, we recommend to always check upfront your coverage with your health or travel insurance, so you won't encounter surprises afterwards.

Obviously, now you are here, we would love to support you and help you out on your dental concerns or inquiries. Usually, travelers, expats and digital nomads, search for search for ”english speaking dentist in argentina” or ”emergency dentist buenos aires” when they find us. Other terms used when searching for urgent dental care on Google or ChatGPT are “odontólogo de guardia” or “urgencias odontológicas.” WhatsApp us to confirm your walk-in, so we make sure you are attended straight away and don't have to wait.

Spanish to explain symptoms

Try phrases like: “Me duele este diente” (this tooth hurts); “Dolor constante / al masticar / con frío o calor” (constant / when chewing / with cold or heat); “Se me salió una corona / un empaste” (my crown / filling came out); “Tengo hinchazón” (I have swelling); “Tuve un accidente” (I had an accident); “Soy alérgico/a a…” (I’m allergic to…); “¿Hay guardia ahora?” (Is urgent care available now?).

To an English-speaking dentist

Like us, some clinics in Buenos Aires, especially in Palermo, Recoleta, and Belgrano, have dentists or receptionists who speak English. When you WhatsApp or call with us, you can just speak English, Spanish or Portuguese. If you might seek a guardia, its good to ask: “¿Habla inglés el odontólogo?” (does the dentist speak English?). If not, apps like Google Translate work well for simple explanations. Don’t worry, in our clinic, we are used to assisting travelers and expats and will make sure you feel understood and cared for.

Common dental symptoms and how they feel

Dental emergencies do not always start with sudden pain. Sensitivity to cold or heat, pressure when biting, bleeding gums, bad taste, or facial tightness can all be early warning signs. Noticing the type and pattern of symptoms helps determine whether the issue is minor or needs prompt attention.

How dental symptoms can progress

Dental symptoms can feel confusing, especially if you are unsure how serious they are. Pain, swelling, bleeding, sensitivity, or pressure can all be signs that something needs attention, even if it starts mildly. If symptoms are getting worse, lasting more than a short time, or interfering with eating or sleeping, it is a good idea to contact a dentist in Buenos Aires for guidance or same-day care.

Keeping track of when symptoms started, how often they appear, and what triggers them can be very helpful. Changes over hours or days often give important clues about the underlying cause. Sharing this information allows the dentist to assess urgency and choose the right treatment faster.

Dental symptoms that may seem unrelated

Some dental problems cause symptoms that do not immediately feel dental. Jaw stiffness, headaches, ear discomfort, facial pressure, or a bad taste in the mouth can all be linked to teeth or gums. When symptoms feel unusual or hard to explain, they are still worth mentioning, as they can help identify hidden dental issues.

Dental symptoms following an accident

After a fall, sports injury, or blow to the face, dental symptoms may appear gradually. Teeth can feel sore, loose, or sensitive hours or even days later. Monitoring changes after an injury is important, as delayed symptoms can still signal damage that needs evaluation.

Simple ways to ease dental discomfort

While waiting to see a dentist, small adjustments can help reduce discomfort. Avoid chewing on the painful side, choose soft foods, and keep drinks at a neutral temperature. Gentle oral hygiene can help, but avoid pressing or rinsing aggressively if the area is sore.

Preparing for a dental emergency appointment

Many travel policies reimburse urgent dental assessments; bring your policy number and ask the clinic for a factura (invoice) for claims. Keep receipts from your visit and any tests so your insurer can process documentation after you return.

Dental emergencies can feel overwhelming, especially when traveling. Taking slow breaths, focusing on practical next steps, and knowing help is available can ease anxiety. Managing stress is an important part of handling dental pain and making clear decisions about care.

What to eat and avoid during dental pain

Food and drink choices can affect dental pain more than expected. Soft foods and neutral temperatures are usually easier to tolerate, while very hot, cold, sweet, or hard foods may worsen discomfort. Adjusting what you eat can help prevent flare-ups while you arrange dental care.

How to avoid making dental pain worse

Small habits can influence how dental pain develops. Avoid touching, probing, or chewing on the affected area, and be cautious with rinsing or home remedies. Protecting the area reduces irritation and lowers the risk of symptoms worsening before treatment.

How to schedule in English

The fastest routes are WhatsApp, email, or a brief phone call. Share your name, preferred time window, main concern, and if you need English during the visit. Ask for the clinic’s location pin and check-in instructions. If you’re flexible with time, you’ll often be seen sooner.

Payments, receipts, and claims

Bring a passport or photo ID and a payment method. Ask for a factura (itemized invoice) with your full details for insurance claims. Some clinics request a deposit to secure urgent slots. Keep all receipts and any treatment notes the clinic can provide in English.

You’ll find many English-friendly clinics in Palermo (Soho/Hollywood), Recoleta, Puerto Madero, and Núñez. Proximity to Subte lines and main avenues makes these easy to reach. When you call, ask about evening or Saturday hours to fit your travel plans.

Spanish lines for the first call

“Me duele al morder” (hurts when I bite); “Dolor punzante / constante” (sharp / constant pain); “Sensibilidad que dura” (lingering sensitivity); “Desde anoche” (since last night); “Tengo hinchazón” (I have swelling); “Soy alérgico/a a…”; “¿Pueden atenderme hoy?” (can you see me today?).

If it’s urgent and you need English

Ask for “guardia odontológica” and mention you prefer English assistance. If the dentist isn’t fluent, reception can still help with key explanations, and translation apps cover short phrases. Bring ID, a payment method, and any allergy information to speed up check-in.

How to pay at your appointment

The fastest routes are WhatsApp, email, or a brief phone call. Share your name, preferred time window, main concern, and if you need English during the visit. Ask for the clinic’s location pin and check-in instructions. If you’re flexible with time, you’ll often be seen sooner.

Travel insurance and dental claims

Many policies reimburse unexpected dental care abroad; check your plan, save invoices, and keep proof of payment for your claim.

You’ll find many English-friendly clinics in Palermo (Soho/Hollywood), Recoleta, Puerto Madero, and Núñez. Proximity to Subte lines and main avenues makes these easy to reach. When you call, ask about evening or Saturday hours to fit your travel plans.

Helpful phrases for payments & receipts

“¿Aceptan tarjeta extranjera?” (Do you take foreign cards?); “¿Pueden darme una factura detallada?”; “¿Cuál es el presupuesto total?”; “¿Incluye radiografía?”; “¿Necesitan depósito?”; “¿Pueden enviarlo por WhatsApp o email?” These short lines make check-in and checkout smoother.

Asking for English billing help

Many clinics can provide estimates and receipts in English. When calling, ask “¿Hay alguien que pueda explicarme los costos en inglés?” If not, simple translation apps work well for numbers and item names. Bring your policy details—the team can note them on your paperwork to support your claim.

Sharing your story clearly

One short message helps: where it hurts (or what happened), when it started, and anything that makes it better or worse. Mention allergies and current medicines. Ask the team to repeat the plan back to you so you both know the next step.

Bilingual help & interpreter tips

Ask if the dentist or reception speaks English and whether instructions can be provided in writing. It’s fine to use a translation app for short phrases. You can also request slower speech—“¿Podría hablar más despacio, por favor?”—so nothing is missed.

Confirm appointment time, clinic address, floor or door code, and documents to bring. After the visit, ask for a brief written summary and the best number for follow-up questions. Keeping everything in one chat thread makes travel days easier.

Paperwork you might see

You may be asked to review consentimiento informado (consent). It’s okay to take a moment to read, ask questions, and request a plain-language explanation. If helpful, request a photo or PDF copy for your records.

Getting notes for your home dentist

Ask for an English visit summary and copies of X-rays as JPG or PDF. Confirm how they’ll send files (WhatsApp, email, download link) and the expected timing. Keeping these documents handy simplifies any follow-up once you’re home.

Foods and drinks that can aggravate

Very hard, sticky, or chewy items can be challenging—hard candies, nuts, crunchy toasts, tough cuts of meat, or gooey sweets. Extremely hot or icy drinks may also feel sharp on sensitive teeth. If something tugs at dental work or spikes discomfort, set it aside and choose a softer alternative that feels calm and manageable.

Ordering gently in restaurants

In Buenos Aires, you can request softer sides or sauces to help dishes go down smoothly. Ask for fish or chicken bien tierno (very tender), pasta al dente suave, or mashed vegetables. Mention that you prefer food templado (warm, not hot). Request water sin hielo if cold drinks bother you, and ask to slice items into smaller pieces.

Easy, soft staples are widely available: yogurts, puddings, fruit purées, ready soups, polenta, instant oats (avena), avocados, and soft bread. If you enjoy something sweet, let ice cream soften before eating. Keep bottled water handy for sipping through the day, and pick shelf-stable options that are simple to pack between appointments.

Heat, cold, and meal pacing

Extreme temperatures can make sensitive areas react. Let hot drinks cool slightly and avoid very icy sips. Smaller, more frequent meals are often easier than large plates. If one side feels okay, favor it gently. Take your time—moving slowly helps notice what feels comfortable and what to skip for now.

Useful phrases for ordering

Try: “Comida suave, por favor.” (soft food, please); “Sin hielo.”; “¿Puede cortarlo en trocitos?”; “Templado, no muy caliente.”; “Salsa aparte.”; “Carne bien tierna.”; “Tengo una molestia dental, ¿pueden adaptar el plato?” Short, clear requests help kitchens make simple adjustments.

Cleaning without your kit

If your brush is lost in transit, wrap a clean cloth or gauze around a finger to wipe plaque from teeth and gums. Rinse well with safe drinking water and floss gently if you have it. Once you reach a farmacia, ask for a soft brush (cepillo suave) and a mild toothpaste.

Simple rinsing when tender

Lukewarm water sips and gentle swishing help after snacks, especially if brushing is uncomfortable. Alcohol-free mouthwashes sting less; avoid strong, burning rinses if they irritate you. Take small sips, tilt, and let the liquid fall out—no forceful swishing over sore areas.

Clean aligners or retainers with a soft brush and cool water—no hot water. Store them in a ventilated case between meals, and avoid sugary drinks while wearing them. If edges rub, a bit of orthodontic wax can improve comfort until you’re seen.

Pharmacy essentials in Spanish

Ask for cepillo suave, pasta para dientes sensibles, hilo dental or cepillos interdentales, cera ortodóntica, and enjuague bucal sin alcohol. Travel sizes are common. If you prefer written instructions, request “indicaciones por escrito” at the counter.

Smart rinsing on the go

Keep a small bottle of safe drinking water for quick rinses after meals. If hot or icy temperatures bother you, choose templado (lukewarm). On flights, sip water regularly—dryness makes plaque cling more. A brief rinse and a tissue wipe are better than letting food sit.

Clean tools, clean rooms

Look for instruments in sealed pouches with indicators, disposable items opened in front of you, and tidy work surfaces. Gloves and masks are changed between patients. If something seems unclear, it’s okay to ask how they prepare and sterilize equipment for your visit.

X-rays and protection

Lukewarm water sips and gentle swishing help after snacks, especially if brushing is uncomfortable. Alcohol-free mouthwashes sting less; avoid strong, burning rinses if they irritate you. Take small sips, tilt, and let the liquid fall out—no forceful swishing over sore areas.

Let the clinic know about allergies, anticoagulants, heart conditions, recent surgeries, or dental materials you react to. Bring a short list of medications and doses. These details help teams select products and techniques that fit you safely.

Understanding what you accept

Before any procedure, ask for the steps, alternatives, and estimated costs in plain language. Read consent forms without rush, and request a brief written summary. Keep copies of documents and images so you can follow the plan comfortably.

Speaking up and next options

You can pause, ask the dentist to explain again, or request a second opinion. Clinics can share your X-rays and notes so another professional can review them. Stay calm, communicate your concern, and choose the path that feels safe to you.