Sometimes braces alone aren’t enough to move teeth into a better position, or correct a problematic bite or misaligned jaw growth. In those situations, your trusted Tucson orthodontist may recommend the use of special appliances, such as orthodontic headgear. Orthodontic headgear is worn partly outside the mouth and applies just enough force to move the teeth properly and guide the growth of the face and jaws.<\/p>\n
Types of Headgear<\/strong> Cervical-Pull & High-Pull Headgear<\/strong> Both types of headgear are typically used to correct an excessive horizontal overbite (an \u201coverjet\u201d) in children by holding back the growth of the upper jaw. These appliances can also be used for adults who need help maintaining a proper bite and correcting tooth spacing after tooth extraction. Generally, these types of headgear are meant to be worn 12 – 14 hours a day.<\/p>\n Reverse-Pull \/ Facemask Headgear<\/strong> The Outcome Depends on You<\/strong>
\nThere are several types of orthodontic headgear; each is designed to work best in a specific situation. At our Tucson office, your orthodontist will design a treatment program to address your individual needs, and select the most appropriate type of headgear to meet those needs. In general, there are three main types of headgear:<\/p>\n\n
\nCervical-Pull headgear has a U-shaped wire that attaches to the bands on your back teeth and a strap that is worn behind your neck. High-pull headgear is similar, but it also has a wire connecting to the teeth and a strap that goes behind and over the head.<\/p>\n
\nThis appliance is generally used to correct an underbite. It gently pulls the upper jaw forward (instead of back), which allows it to catch up with the lower jaw. The appliance consists of two pads\u2014one resting on the forehead, the other on the chin, connected by a vertical frame. Elastics or wires, which connect from the frame to the braces, exert the pulling force. It may be necessary to wear this appliance about 14 – 16 hours a day.<\/p>\n
\nWhatever type of headgear you’re wearing, there are some important things to remember:<\/p>\n\n