Headgear
The headgear is an orthodontic appliance anchored outside the mouth. It consists of two arches, one of which is hooked into a neck band behind the head. Inside the mouth, the second arch is attached in tubes to the molars or to a removable appliance.
It is also the molars that are moved by the headgear. The success of such a treatment depends largely on the patient’s cooperation, as it must be worn for many hours every day. The headgear belongs to the removable orthodontic appliances and must be removed for eating.
The headgear is not undisputed. On the one hand, the aesthetics are disturbed by the striking outer arch and the nuchal ligament, on the other hand, pain can be caused by the pull. This is why some orthodontists reject the headgear completely, since the same results can be achieved with other orthodontic appliances.
Side effects
A movement of the teeth naturally also has an effect on the jawbone. The pressure moves the tooth, which means that bone is broken down on one side of the tooth and bone has to be built up on the opposite side. This can lead to pain in the periodontium, but this is reversible. Insufficient oral hygiene can lead to gingivitis or caries, both of which can be avoided by oral hygiene.
Summary of the tasks of orthodontics
Orthodontic measures regulate malformations of the jaw and teeth. Fixed and removable appliances are available for this purpose. The orthodontist determines which appliance is the most suitable.
In any case, the patient’s cooperation is necessary to ensure success. The goal of every orthodontic treatment should be to achieve a normal tooth position. Depending on the severity of the initial findings, the duration of the treatment varies. Orthodontic treatment can still be successfully performed in adults.