Need Help Fast? Call Us at 512-732-2500 for Emergency Orthodontics in Westlake

Some orthodontic issues require immediate attention to prevent pain or further complications. If you’re unsure whether your situation qualifies as an emergency, here are the most common reasons patients call us for urgent care:

• Broken or detached brackets – Brackets that have come off can irritate soft tissues and slow down your progress.
• Poking or bent wires – Sharp wires can cut or scrape the inside of your mouth and may need to be trimmed or repositioned.
• Loose bands – Bands that wrap around molars and come loose must be secured again to maintain proper tooth movement.
• Lost separators – These small rubber spacers are sometimes needed before placing other appliances and should be replaced if they fall out early.
• Persistent pain – If discomfort after an adjustment doesn’t fade within a day or two, or if new pain occurs suddenly, it may be worth investigating.

No matter the issue, our Westlake team is trained to respond quickly and effectively to keep your treatment plan moving forward with as little disruption as possible.

How to Ease Orthodontic Discomfort at Home

If you can’t get into our Westlake office right away, you can take steps to protect your smile and manage discomfort until your visit:

• Apply orthodontic wax – Place wax over any wires or brackets that are irritating your cheeks, lips, or gums.
• Rinse with warm salt water – A soothing saltwater rinse can reduce swelling and clean irritated areas.
• Use a cold compress – Placing a cold compress on the outside of your mouth can help relieve swelling or jaw pain.
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers – Follow label instructions to ease soreness, especially after adjustments.

These remedies won’t solve the problem completely but can offer temporary relief until we can treat the root cause.

What to Expect During an Emergency Orthodontic Visit in Westlake

At Tomblyn Family Orthodontics in Westlake, we focus on delivering efficient, same-day care in a calm, supportive environment. When you visit us for an orthodontic emergency, you’ll be seen quickly and treated using some of the most advanced tools available:

• iTero® digital scanners for high-precision, mess-free imaging
• Digital X-rays to identify structural issues quickly and safely
• Intraoral cameras to get a close-up view of any damage or concern

Once we diagnose the issue, we’ll perform the necessary repairs or adjustments. Our doctors and team take time to explain everything we’re doing so you feel confident in your care. And with comforts like complimentary beverages, Wi-Fi, and TVs in treatment rooms, we aim to make your visit as relaxed as possible—even when it’s unexpected.

Flexible Payment Options for Unexpected Visits

We know emergencies aren’t always budgeted for. To ease any financial stress, we offer multiple payment options, including:

• Credit/debit cards and checks
• Flexible financing plans
• In-house membership programs for discounted services

Our Westlake team will guide you through your payment options so you can focus on healing—not finances.

Preventing Orthodontic Emergencies Before They Happen

While we’re always here when things go wrong, we’d rather help you avoid emergencies altogether. Follow these tips to reduce your risk of unplanned visits:

• Stick to your appointments – Regular check-ins allow us to make timely adjustments and catch problems early.
• Clean your braces or aligners properly – Daily brushing, flossing, and using recommended tools help prevent complications.
• Avoid foods that damage appliances – Steer clear of sticky, crunchy, or hard foods like caramel, popcorn, and ice.
• Use a mouthguard – If you play contact sports, wearing a properly fitted mouthguard can prevent trauma to your teeth and appliances.
• Follow your treatment plan – Whether it’s wearing aligners as directed or using your retainer, compliance goes a long way toward smooth, uninterrupted treatment.