With headgear, also called an outboard brace, a certain force is exerted on the upper jaw. This force has some influence on the growth of the upper jaw, but especially on the position of the upper teeth, to which the headgear is attached.
The direction of the force depends on the intended effect and on the way the face is developing. Sometimes the force is directed backwards and upwards and a head cap is used. In other cases, the force is directed backwards and downwards, and a neckband is used. A metal brace with an inner and an outer arch (facebow) is used to transfer the force of the headgear brace to the teeth. A headgear is sometimes combined with a retainer in the upper jaw or with braces.
An outboard brace only works if you wear it according to the instructions; usually we will ask you to wear the headgear 14-16 hours a day, sometimes only at night. Never wear the headgear while exercising or brushing. The molars may feel sore and loosen during the first week. This is part of the process and it is important that it happens.
Sleeping with the headgear is quite difficult at first. For the first 2 nights, if you are in a lot of pain, you can take off the outside brace. The hours lost must then be made up during the day. After that, it is important to always wear the headgear for the required number of hours per day. If it goes well or the brace is a bit loose, you can tighten the headgear once after 1 or 2 days.
The rings around your upper teeth can come loose if you play with your braces, if you just pull the headgear out without pushing the loops together or if you wriggle it in and out. Please do not do this.
Always bring your headgear with you when you come for a check-up or when you get new braces.
