In recent years, orthodontics has become one of the most in-demand spheres of dental care. This is partly because more and more people are striving for perfect teeth. However, orthodontics is not just about aesthetics. Properly aligned teeth are also easier to clean and less likely to experience tooth decay or other problems.
Orthodontic headgear treatment is a popular choice for patients seeking to improve their smile. Headgear works by applying gentle pressure to the teeth, encouraging them to move into the correct position. This type of treatment is often used in conjunction with braces, and it can be an effective way to achieve straighter teeth.
What is an Orthodontic Headgear?
An orthodontic headgear is a type of dental appliance used to correct alignment issues with the teeth and jaw. Headgears are most commonly used in children and adolescents, as their bones are still growing and more responsive to treatment.
There are two main types of headgears: those that attach to the back molars and those that fit around the forehead. Headgear orthodontics works by applying pressure to the teeth and jaw, slowly moving them into the correct position.
In some cases, headgears may be worn for only a few hours each day; in more severe cases, they may need to be worn full-time. Orthodontic headgears can be uncomfortable, but they are usually very effective in correcting alignment issues.
Why is Orthodontic Headgear Used?
What is orthodontic headgear used for? Orthodontic headgear is a device used to correct dental and jaw irregularities. It consists of a metal frame that attaches to the teeth and a series of straps and bands that go around the head. The orthodontic headgear’s purpose is to apply pressure to the teeth and jaw, gradually moving them into the correct position. In some cases, the headgear may be used in combination with braces.
Headgear is most often used in children, as their bones are still growing and therefore, more responsive to treatment. However, it can also be used in adults if their bones are not too dense. Orthodontic headgear is an effective way to treat many different dental and jaw problems and can ultimately improve the function and appearance of the teeth.
Which are the Main Parts of an Orthodontic Headgear?
Orthodontic headgear is an essential tool for straightening teeth and correcting bite problems. The main parts of an orthodontic headgear include:
| PART | WHAT IS IT? |
|---|---|
| A head cap | A head cap, as its name implies, is a part of the headgear attached to the head. The head cap helps to keep the helmet in place and also provides a point of attachment for the chin strap. |
| Fitting straps | Fitting straps are an essential part of headgear, and the type of strap used depends on the type of headgear. Fitting straps are an important part of any headgear, as they help to keep the device in place and prevent it from slipping. |
| Elastic bands | Elastic bands are small, stretchy loops that are commonly used in orthodontic treatment. They are used to attach the headgear to the teeth. |
| Facebow | An orthodontic headgear facebow is an appliance that helps dentists to move teeth into their proper positions being attached to the bands. |
| Chin cup/ Forhead pad | It is used to treat underbite and in general is attached to the forhead pad. |
| Mouth yoke | It is a horizontal metal device which is responsible for the pressure on the teeth and making space in the mouth. |
Orthodontic headgear braces are also a part of this treatment, but they are not always included in the appliance.
What Are the Types of Orthodontic Headgear?
An orthodontic headgear is an extraoral appliance worn to correct dental irregularities. Here are orthodontic headgear types:cervical pull, high pull, reverse pull.
Cervicall pull
When it comes to orthodontic treatment, there are a number of different options available. One option is called a cervical pull, which is used to correct a malocclusion called an overjet and overbite.
With a cervical pull, a wire is attached to the back of the headgear and runs through the mouth. This wire is then connected to the braces on the upper teeth. As the wire is tightened, it pulls the upper teeth back into alignment with the lower teeth. Cervical pulls are often used in conjunction with other forms of treatment, such as braces or headgear worn on the lower teeth. In most cases, treatment with a cervical pull will take place over the course of several months.
Overbite
Cervical pull is a type of treatment that is used to correct an overbite. It typically creates protrusion in a vertical direction. Cervical pull works by gradually moving the upper jaw forward and the lower jaw backward. This allows the upper and lower teeth to align correctly. Cervical pull is usually done in two phases: Phase 1 is when the cervical pull device is attached to the braces; Phase 2 is when the device is removed and only the braces remain. The entire process usually takes about 18 months to complete. After treatment, most people have a significant improvement in their bite and their smile!
Overjet
In order to understand how a cervical pull works, it is first necessary to understand what an overjet is. An overjet is a condition in which the upper teeth protrude beyond the lower teeth. This can often be corrected with braces, but in some cases, headgear may be necessary.
High pull
High pull headgear is an orthodontic device that helps to move the teeth and jaws into their proper positions. It consists of two primary components: a facebow and a headgear strap. The facebow is attached to the brackets on the front teeth, and the headgear strap goes around the back of the head.
Together, these two pieces work to apply gentle pressure to the teeth and jaws, gradually moving them into the correct positions. High pull headgear is often used in conjunction with other orthodontic appliances, such as braces, to achieve optimal results. While it may take some time to get used to wearing high pull headgear, most patients find that it is well worth the effort, as it can dramatically improve the appearance of their smile.
Open bite
An open bite is a type of malocclusion, or bad bite, in which the teeth do not make contact when the jaws are closed. This can occur due to a number of reasons, including thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, or incorrect eruption of the teeth. An open bite can cause a number of problems, including difficulty chewing and speaking. It can also lead to TMJ disorders and an increased risk of tooth decay. In most cases, treatment for an open bite involves correcting the underlying cause through the high pull headgear.
Reverse pull
Reverse pull headgear is an orthodontic face mask reverse pull headgear. It is a treatment option for patients dealing with underbite and crossbite issues. It is basically a device that attaches to the upper and lower teeth in order to slowly shift them into the correct position.
This process can take several months, but it is typically very effective in correcting the bite. The headgear must be worn for at least 12 hours per day in order to be effective, and it is important to follow the instructions of the orthodontist carefully.
Reverse pull headgear can be uncomfortable for some patients, but it is typically well tolerated. Overall, it is a very effective treatment option for patients with underbite and crossbite issues.
Underbite
When most people think of teeth, they usually envision a perfect smile with straight, white teeth. However, there are a variety of different dental conditions that can affect the way teeth look and function. One common condition is an underbite, which occurs when the lower teeth protrude in front of the upper teeth. This can give the appearance of a “bulldog” or “pug” face. Underbites can also cause functional problems, such as difficulty chewing or speaking.
Crossbite
Another common condition is a crossbite, which occurs when the upper and lower teeth do not line up correctly. This can lead to tooth wear and gum disease. Both underbites and crossbites can be corrected with orthodontic treatment. If you are concerned about the way your teeth look or function, be sure to consult with a dentist or orthodontist.
How to Use an Orthodontic Headgear?
Headgear orthodontic appliance is a type of dental device that is used to correct improper bites and alignment issues. In order to use orthodontic headgear, you will need to:
- Visit an orthodontist who can fit you for the appliance.
- Once you have the headgear, it will need to be worn for a certain number of hours each day. The amount of time will depend on the severity of your alignment issue. In some cases, the headgear may need to be worn all day, while in other cases it may only need to be worn at night.
- Orthodontic headgear can be uncomfortable to wear, but it is typically only needed for a few months.
- Take proper care and maintenance of orthodontic headgear.
- It can be an effective way to improve your smile.
What Are the Side Effects of an Orthodontic Headgear?
While headgear is generally effective in treating orthodontic problems, it can also cause a number of side effects. As a result, it is important to consult with an orthodontist before decides whether or not to use this type of treatment. Although orthodontic headgear can cause some side effects, it is generally considered to be safe and effective. With proper care and maintenance, headgear can help to correct a wide range of orthodontic problems.
Some of the orthodontic headgear side effects are:
- Neck pain
- Skin irritation (the braces can rub the skin)
- Headaches (due to pressure)
- Prevent chin from coming forward (can cause flatten face)
Dos and Don’ts While Wearing an Orthodontic Headgear
Wearing an orthodontic headgear is a commitment. However, orthodontic headgear before and after results are worth trying it. You will likely have to wear it for several hours each day, and it will take some time to get used to. However, the results are worth the effort. Here are some dos and don’ts to help you make the most of your orthodontic headgear:
- Wear your headgear as prescribed by your orthodontist. This may be for several hours each day or only at night.
- Clean your headgear regularly with soap and water.
- Brush and floss your teeth as usual, being careful not to damage the headgear.
- Do not try to adjust the headgear yourself. This can damage it or cause it to become less effective.
- Do not wear your headgear while playing sports or engaging in other activities where it could become damaged or dislodged.
Conclusion
Orthodontic headgear is not a simple treatment, it is a commitment that requires regular wearing and careful maintenance. Users must consult a specialist and follow all the instructions to obtain a good result.
The most important thing is to keep the headgear clean and free of debris, which can cause irritation and pain. In addition, it is important to adjust the straps regularly to ensure a comfortable fit.
Orthodontic headgear can be a great way to improve your smile, but it takes dedication and care to achieve the best results.
Sources
- Is Orthodontic Headgear Really Necessary? (2019). Retrieved 19 September 2022, from https://www.wheregrinsbegin.com/blog/2019/6/19/is-orthodontic-headgear-really-necessary
- Orthodontics headgear: what kind of teeth need headgear? (2022). Retrieved 19 September 2022, from https://www.preferreddentalcaresantarosa.com/orthodontics-headgear-what-kind-of-teeth-need-headgear/
- MouthHealthy (2022). Retrieved 19 September 2022, from https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en
