Herbst Appliance used in conjunction with Braces

The Headgear Appliance is still a valid means of treating certain Orthodontic problems, but it has fallen in popularity in recent years for a number of reasons including patient compliance issues.

The Herbst Appliance is another popularly used appliance which, when used along with Braces,  may help to address upper vs. lower  jaw imbalances. When large upper versus lower  jaw size  discrepancies exist, facial orthopedic growth modification or facial orthopedic repositioning devices may be the best solution. Skeletal discrepancies are often profoundly difficult to treat, and Invisalign may Not be the best choice in such situations.

Sometimes a person's upper and lower  jaws do not match or coordinate. This can contribute to a poor bite or  " occlusion ". In such situations facial orthopedic measures to modify growth or jaw reposturing approaches may come into consideration by the Orthodontist,

This will be determined by your individual situation in discussion with your Orthodontist.  The good news is that Headgear is used less frequently than in the past and you may only have to wear it at night time.  Herbst Appliances now come in new mini varieties that are much less cumbersome. So definitely don’t panic !  

Poor meshing of the upper and lower  teeth. Simply straightening the upper and lower teeth with Braces will not be enough to treat this situation. The upper and lower jaws need to be better coordinated. Options for achieving this may include Headgear and or Herbst Appliances. Careful analysis is first needed before determining which is appropriate.

Metal Headgear Bow and one of two Safety Releases. Each bow uses one Safety Release Mechanism on each side.  The Safety Releases attach to a strap which goes around the back of the neck. The actual padded strap is not shown.

This is a Headgear bow that which is attached via Safety Releases to a strap that goes around the back of neck. The two metal prongs generally fit onto the upper left and right  first molar bands. If Headgear is employed great caution should be taken during placement and removal. In addition, Safety Release Mechanisms should always be used. Ask your Orthodontist for more details on the style and type of Headgear you will be using.