Headgear is a specialised orthodontic appliance used to correct bite issues and support proper jaw alignment during development. At London Dental Specialists, we understand that considering headgear treatment for yourself or your child raises many questions. This external device, worn partially outside the mouth and typically recommended for growing children, works alongside braces to achieve optimal dental alignment. Our patients often want to know about comfort levels, wearing schedules, appearance concerns, and effectiveness. Below, we've addressed the most common questions about orthodontic headgear to help you make informed decisions about this valuable treatment option that can prevent more invasive procedures later in life.
What is orthodontic headgear?
Orthodontic headgear is an external appliance used in conjunction with braces to correct bite issues and support proper jaw alignment. It typically consists of a strap that goes around the back of the head or neck connected to a metal wire (facebow) that attaches to brackets on the teeth. At London Dental Specialists, we prescribe headgear to address specific orthodontic issues that cannot be corrected with braces alone, particularly when jaw growth modification is needed.
When might my child need orthodontic headgear?
Your child might need orthodontic headgear if they have:
- An overbite (upper teeth significantly overlapping lower teeth)
- Excessive protrusion of upper front teeth
- Jaw growth discrepancies requiring correction
- Specific tooth movement needs that braces alone cannot address
- Need for space creation for crowded teeth or impacted teeth
Our specialists at London Dental Specialists will conduct a thorough assessment to determine if headgear is the appropriate treatment option for your child's specific orthodontic needs.
How long will my child need to wear orthodontic headgear?
The duration for wearing orthodontic headgear varies depending on the individual case and severity of the orthodontic issue. Typically, patients need to wear headgear for 12-16 hours per day for 6-18 months. With consistent wear as directed and regular check-ups at London Dental Specialists, treatment time can be minimised. Our orthodontists will provide a personalised timeline based on your child's specific treatment plan.
Is wearing orthodontic headgear painful?
Patients may experience mild discomfort or pressure when first wearing orthodontic headgear or after adjustments. This discomfort typically subsides within a few days as the mouth adapts. At London Dental Specialists, we ensure proper fitting to minimise discomfort and provide guidance on pain management techniques. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate initial soreness if needed. Most patients adjust to wearing headgear within 1-2 weeks.
What types of orthodontic headgear do you offer at London Dental Specialists?
At London Dental Specialists, we offer several types of orthodontic headgear based on patients' specific needs:
- Cervical pull headgear: Attaches around the neck and is used to correct overbites
- High-pull headgear: Connects to the top or back of the head to address vertical growth issues
- Combination/universal headgear: Provides both cervical and high-pull forces
- Reverse-pull headgear (facemask): Used to treat underbites by pulling the upper jaw forward
- J-hook headgear: Connects directly to the archwire to retract front teeth
Our orthodontists will recommend the most appropriate type based on your specific treatment needs.
How should my child care for their orthodontic headgear?
Proper care of orthodontic headgear ensures effective treatment and comfort. We recommend:
- Clean the metal parts daily with a toothbrush and mild soap
- Wash fabric components regularly according to our provided instructions
- Store the headgear in its protective case when not in use
- Avoid bending the metal components
- Bring the headgear to all appointments at London Dental Specialists for adjustments and evaluation
- Contact us immediately if any part becomes damaged or uncomfortable
Our team will provide detailed care instructions specific to your type of headgear.
Can my child play sports while wearing orthodontic headgear?
We generally recommend removing orthodontic headgear during sports activities for safety reasons. Contact and high-impact sports pose a particular risk of damage to both the headgear and potentially causing injury. At London Dental Specialists, we work with patients to adjust their wearing schedule to accommodate sports activities while still meeting the required daily wear time. For some sports, special protective equipment may be recommended in addition to temporarily removing the headgear.
How will headgear affect my child's daily activities?
While there is an adjustment period, most patients adapt well to wearing orthodontic headgear. It may initially affect speech and eating, but these challenges typically resolve within 1-2 weeks. We recommend wearing headgear after school and during sleep to minimise social concerns. At London Dental Specialists, we provide strategies to help patients incorporate headgear wear into their routine with minimal disruption to daily activities. Consistent wear as directed is essential for successful treatment outcomes.
What happens if my child doesn't wear their headgear as prescribed?
Inconsistent wear of orthodontic headgear can significantly impact treatment outcomes, potentially leading to:
- Extended overall treatment time
- Incomplete correction of the orthodontic issue
- Need for alternative treatments or interventions
- Additional costs for extended treatment
At London Dental Specialists, we emphasise the importance of following the prescribed wear schedule and offer support strategies to help patients maintain compliance. Regular check-ups allow us to monitor progress and make adjustments as needed.
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