Orthodontic headgear is a dental appliance used to guide jaw growth and correct bite problems that braces alone may not be able to fix. While it is not as commonly used today as it once was, headgear can still play an important role in treating certain orthodontic issues, especially in growing children.
If your child’s orthodontist has recommended headgear, you may have questions about what it does, how long it needs to be worn, and whether it causes discomfort. Understanding the purpose of orthodontic headgear can help you feel more confident about the treatment process.
What Is Orthodontic Headgear?
Orthodontic headgear is an appliance that applies gentle pressure to the teeth and jaws to correct bite alignment and guide jaw growth. It usually works alongside braces and is most commonly prescribed for children and pre-teens whose jaws are still developing.
Unlike braces, which mainly move teeth, headgear helps influence how the upper or lower jaw grows. This allows orthodontists to address more complex bite problems and reduce the need for future treatments.
What Does Orthodontic Headgear Help Fix?
Orthodontic headgear helps correct bite problems that occur when the upper and lower jaws do not align properly. Here’s a closer look at some of them:
1. Overjet (Buck Teeth)
Orthodontic headgear helps reduce overjet (buck teeth) by slowing the forward growth of the upper jaw and moving the front teeth into a better position.
An overjet occurs when the upper front teeth stick out significantly beyond the lower teeth. In some cases, this can increase the risk of dental injuries and affect appearance.
2. Overbite
Orthodontic headgear helps correct certain types of overbites by guiding jaw growth and improving the relationship between the upper and lower teeth.
An overbite happens when the upper teeth excessively overlap the lower teeth when the mouth is closed.
3. Underbite
Orthodontic headgear helps treat underbites by encouraging proper jaw development and improving bite alignment.
An underbite occurs when the lower jaw extends further forward than the upper jaw, causing the lower teeth to sit in front of the upper teeth.
What Are the Different Types of Orthodontic Headgear?
Different types of orthodontic headgear are designed to treat different bite and jaw alignment problems.
1. Cervical Pull Headgear
Cervical pull headgear is used to correct overjets and certain overbites by slowing the growth of the upper jaw.
This type of headgear includes a neck strap that connects to the braces through a facebow. The gentle pressure helps move the upper teeth and jaw into a better position over time.
2. High Pull Headgear
High pull headgear is used to control the growth of the upper jaw and help correct bite problems involving protruding upper teeth.
Instead of attaching around the neck, this type uses straps that fit around the back of the head. It is often recommended for children with vertical growth patterns and more pronounced bite concerns.
3. Reverse Pull Headgear
Reverse pull headgear is used to treat underbites by encouraging forward growth of the upper jaw.
Also known as a facemask, this appliance applies gentle forward pressure to the upper jaw, helping improve the position of the upper teeth relative to the lower teeth.
Who Needs to Wear Headgear?
Orthodontic headgear is most commonly recommended for pre-teen children whose jaws are still growing. Because the bones are still developing, orthodontists can guide jaw growth more effectively during this stage. Headgear is typically prescribed when a child has a significant overjet, overbite, or underbite that cannot be fully corrected with braces alone.
What Should I Expect During Treatment?
You should expect an adjustment period during the first few days of treatment. Your child may feel pressure on their teeth and jaws as the headgear begins working. This is normal and usually improves as they get used to wearing the appliance.
Regular orthodontic appointments will be needed to monitor progress and make adjustments when necessary. Consistent wear is important because the success of treatment depends heavily on following the orthodontist’s instructions.
How Long Will My Child Need to Wear Orthodontic Headgear?
Most children need to wear orthodontic headgear for around 12 to 14 hours each day.
Many orthodontists recommend wearing it during the evening and while sleeping, making it easier to fit into a child’s daily routine. The total treatment time varies depending on the severity of the bite problem, but many children wear headgear for several months to a few years.
Following the recommended wear schedule is important because inconsistent use can slow progress and extend treatment time.
What Are the Side Effects of Orthodontic Headgear?
Like most orthodontic treatments, headgear can cause some temporary side effects, especially during the early stages of treatment.
The most common side effect is sore teeth or jaw discomfort when the appliance is first worn. Some children may also notice that certain teeth feel slightly loose as they begin to shift into their new positions. This is usually a normal part of orthodontic treatment.
The discomfort often improves within a few days as the mouth adjusts. Wearing the appliance as directed and following your orthodontist’s recommendations can help make the adjustment period easier.
How to Ease the Pain?
To ease the pain, we recommend trying the following:
1. Apply Ice Packs to the Sore Part of Their Jaw
A cold compress or ice pack can help reduce soreness and provide temporary relief, especially during the first few days of treatment.
2. Switch to Soft Foods Until the Pain Gets Better
Soft foods such as yogurt, soup, mashed potatoes, pasta, and smoothies can make eating more comfortable while the teeth and jaw adjust.
3. Give Your Child Pain Medicine
If recommended by your orthodontist or healthcare provider, over-the-counter pain medication may help reduce discomfort during the initial adjustment period.
Closing Thoughts
Orthodontic headgear can be a highly effective treatment for correcting jaw growth issues and improving bite alignment, particularly in growing children. While it requires commitment and consistent wear, it can help prevent more complex orthodontic problems later on.
That said, orthodontics has come a long way. Today, many patients have access to more comfortable and discreet treatment options. Depending on your child’s needs, alternatives such as Invisalign may be worth exploring. Modern clear aligners can address many orthodontic concerns without the appearance and inconvenience of traditional headgear.
Not Sure if Orthodontic Headgear Is Right for Your Child? Get a personalized evaluation to understand the best treatment options for correcting bite and jaw alignment issues.
FAQs
2. At what age Is orthodontic headgear recommended?
Orthodontic headgear is typically recommended for children between the ages of 8 and 14. The exact timing depends on the child's dental development and the type of bite issue being treated.
3. Is orthodontic headgear painful?
Orthodontic headgear is not usually painful, but it can cause mild soreness or pressure when treatment begins. Most children adjust within a few days.
4. Are there alternatives to orthodontic headgear?
Yes, there are alternatives to orthodontic headgear. Depending on the specific orthodontic issue, options may include braces, clear aligners such as Invisalign, elastics, expanders, or other orthodontic appliances recommended by your orthodontist.
