What is headgear?
Headgear is an appliance used with braces to correct jaw issues and bites. For example, headgear can help to correct overbites or underbites. It is usually attached to a part of your braces, and extends to a part that sits against your head or neck. It is usually only used in growing patients.
What are the different kinds of headgear?
- Cervical-pull: This kind of appliance corrects big overbites. A metal mouthpiece connects to braces inside the mouth. The other part of the mouthpiece connects to a strap that sits behind the neck. This headgear keeps the upper jaw from growing forward, which allows the lower jaw to catch up. That is how the overbite is corrected or improved.
- High-pull: This kind of appliance corrects overbites, as well as gummy smiles. Similar to the cervical-pull, a separate strap also connects to the top of the skull, which helps prevent the upper jaw from growing downwards.
- Reverse-pull facemask: This kind of appliance corrects underbites. Instead of connecting to the back of the head, the appliance sits on the forehead and the chin, pulling the upper jaw forward. That is how the underbite is corrected.
Does my child need headgear?
Depending on the growing child’s bite & jaw relationship, they may or may not need this appliance. Headgear has fallen out of favor as new appliances have come out, such as the MARA or HERBST, which correct the same issues but sit completely inside the mouth. However, there are certain cases where it is still needed. For example, there is still no good replacement for the reverse-pull facemask.
Do you still use headgear?
Only in certain circumstances. Our practice focuses on the easiest, most straightforward appliances available. As time goes on, we use less of it. However, if it is the best option for a growing child, it is still an option.
How long is it worn?
Headgear is only worn for ~10 hrs/day, and never during the day or outside. If the child has a sleepover, they may skip that night of wear, and make it up the next day. The more consistent the wear, the better.
Would you like to have a complimentary consultation to see if headgear is for your child? Give us a call (707) 474-4707 or message us to make an appointment at our Vacaville office with our Board-Certified orthodontist!
