Orthodontic Headgear: Guiding Jaw Growth and Tooth Movement
Sometimes, braces alone aren’t enough to move teeth into a better position, or to correct trouble with the bite or remedy problems in the growth of the jaws. In those situations, special appliances may be recommended. Orthodontic headgear is the general name for an appliance, worn partly outside the mouth, which creates just enough force to move the teeth properly and guide the growth of the face and jaws. Schaefer Dental Group will design a treatment program specifically for your individual needs in Lansing, Michigan.
It’s important for you to follow instructions carefully so that you can achieve the best results from your treatment.
Types of Headgear and Their Functions
There are several different types of orthodontic headgear, each designed to work best in a specific situation:
- Cervical Pull Type: Has a U-shaped wire attached to the bands on your back teeth and a strap worn behind your neck.
- High-Pull Headgear: Similar to the cervical pull, but with a strap that goes behind and over the head.
These two types are typically used to correct an excessive horizontal overbite (overjet) in children by holding back the growth of the upper jaw. They can also help adults maintain proper bite and tooth spacing after extraction. These are generally designed to be worn from 12-14 hours each day.
- Reverse-Pull or “Facemask” Type: Used to correct an underbite. It gently pulls the upper jaw forward to allow it to catch up with the lower jaw. It consists of two pads (forehead and chin) connected by a vertical frame, with elastics providing the pulling force. It may be necessary to wear this appliance from 14-16 hours daily.
Making Headgear Work Depends on You
The most essential rule is: In order for it to be effective, you must carefully follow instructions about wearing your headgear for the time specified. Missing one night of wear means you must make up the time the following day to avoid losing the progress accomplished in the previous week.
- Discomfort: It’s normal to feel some discomfort as you get used to wearing it, but if you wear it faithfully, the discomfort generally goes away in a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers and/or a soft diet may help you adjust.
- Signs It’s Working: Some soreness when chewing or a little looseness in the first molars is normal and shows the appliance is working.
- Call Us Immediately If: You have unusual pain, the anchor band on your first molar has come loose, or the headgear suddenly seems not to fit correctly.
Remember to bring your headgear with you every time you have an orthodontic appointment, but leave it behind when you’re playing sports or rough-housing.