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When thinking of orthodontics in Houston, braces usually come to mind. However, some children and teenagers may require extra help to guide their teeth and jaws into the right positions. One device orthodontists sometimes recommend is orthodontic headgear. Many parents question whether headgear works or if it is still used.
Let’s look at how orthodontic headgear works, when it is needed, and how effective it can be.
What Is Orthodontic Headgear?
Orthodontic headgear is a dental device that moves teeth and guides jaw growth. Different from braces, which are attached to the teeth, headgear is partially worn outside of the mouth. Headgear usually has a band or strap that goes around the head or neck and connects wires in the mouth.
The objective is to provide gentle but steady pressure. This pressure is to help guide either the growth of a child’s jaw or shift teeth to better positions. Headgear is most often seen in appliance therapy for children because a kid’s jaw is growing, which makes the treatment more effective.
When Do Dentists Recommend Headgear?
Not every child who has braces will need headgear. Orthodontists usually recommend them for certain bite problems or jaw growth problems.
Common reasons include
- Overbite – When the upper front teeth stick out too far ahead of the lower teeth.
- Underbite – When the lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth.
- Crowding – When there isn’t enough space in the mouth for permanent teeth.
- Jaw growth problems – When the upper or lower jaw needs to be guided as a child grows.
Headgear works best when used early, during childhood or early teenage years, before the jawbones become fully developed.
Types of Orthodontic Headgear
There are different types of headgear depending on the dental issue.
| Type of Headgear | How It Works | Common Use |
| Cervical pull | Worn around the back of the neck | Often for overbites |
| High-pull | Worn around the back and top of the head | Used for jaw growth control |
| Reverse-pull (facemask) | Pulls the upper jaw forward | Often used for underbites |
Your dental office in Houston will decide which type is best for your child’s treatment plan.
Is Orthodontic Headgear Effective?
Yes, headgear can be very beneficial when used correctly and at the proper age. It is especially effective when a child is still growing. Headgear allows the orthodontists to direct the jaw growth in ways that braces alone cannot.
But, of course, success relies on wearing the headgear as instructed. Most kids have to wear it a specific number of hours each day, generally every day for about 12 to 14 hours. If it is not worn consistently, then the treatment is less likely to be successful.
Benefits of Using Headgear
- Corrects bite problems that braces cannot fix alone.
- Improves facial balance by guiding jaw growth.
- Creates space for permanent teeth to come in.
- May shorten treatment time with braces later.
- Reduces the need for surgery in severe cases.
These benefits make orthodontic headgear an important part of appliance therapy for children in Houston in some cases.
Challenges of Wearing Headgear
While headgear is a great treatment, some kids feel it’s uncomfortable or inconvenient. Common challenges include
- Feeling pressure while wearing headgear first.
- Removing headgear for meals or sports.
- Needing to wear it for long hours each day.
Dentists usually work closely with families to help children adjust to the treatment. Regular visits to the dental office are important so the orthodontist can check progress and make adjustments.
How Long Does Treatment Last?
The length of time a child wears headgear depends on the severity of the dental problem and how well they follow instructions. Most times, treatment can range anywhere from months to over a year. Consistency is key. Missing hours by simply not wearing the headgear as instructed will cause delays.
Orthodontics Today: Is Headgear Still Used?
Some parents wonder if headgear is still common. Today, orthodontics offers many options, but headgear is still recommended when it is the most effective choice. While headgear is still used nowadays in many cases. For certain problems with jaws and bites, headgear is still most effective. Luckily, the newest designs are more comfortable and less noticeable than older versions, which makes it easier for children to wear them.
Straighten Teeth Safely Using Orthodontic Headgear!
Houston Uptown Dentists offer safe and effective orthodontic dentistry services. Our dental office employs modern treatment options, including orthodontic headgear, to assist in guiding tooth and jaw alignment. Call us at 713-622-6112 to arrange your consultation with dental professionals.