If you experience a dental emergency at sea, your primary resource is the ship’s medical center. While most cruise ships do not have a dedicated dentist on board, the medical staff (doctors and nurses) are trained to handle basic dental trauma, such as managing severe pain, administering antibiotics for infections, or re-cementing a lost crown. For significant issues like a broken tooth or an abscess, the ship’s doctor will focus on stabilization until you reach the next port of call. Cruise lines often maintain a list of vetted local dental clinics in each port for such referrals. It is highly recommended to carry a temporary dental repair kit (available at pharmacies) and travel insurance that specifically covers dental emergencies, as shipboard medical visits are billed as private care and can be expensive.