Headgear

Phase 1 – Treatment with Headgear

Before braces are applied, headgear can help modify the growth pattern of the jaws when there is a size discrepancy between the upper and lower jaws. Headgear redirects or slows the growth of the upper jaw while the lower jaw grows naturally. Sometimes partial braces are placed on the teeth as well.

Phase 2 – Treatment with Headgear

When braces are in place, headgear is used in many ways to redirect jaw growth:

• To move the upper molars back to fit with the lower molars
• To hold the upper molars back while the upper front teeth are moved back into position.

When headgear is prescribed:

• Patients do not need to wear their headgear to school, work or during active sports.
• It must be worn at least 14 hours each day (unless otherwise instructed)
• Consistent daily use is essential to achieve success in treatment (keep a record of wear)
• Never allow the headgear to be damaged, do not rough house with headgear on.

When wearing headgear, expect:

• To feel some pressure when the strap is attached to the face bow, and relief of the pressure when the strap is detached
• The molars to ache and be slightly loosened as tooth movement occurs
• Dry, chapped lips
• Difficulty sleeping initially
• If a band feels loose
• If the headgear has been bent or damaged in any way
• If you feel extreme pressure or discomfort from your headgear

At each appointment in our Wausau area orthdontic offices:

• Bring your headgear so we can check and adjust it, also bring your record of wear book.
• We will measure the space the headgear is creating, and can tell from this how well the headgear is being worn.

Remember — how well you wear your headgear determines how long you need to wear it.