Orthodontic headgear is an essential tool used by orthodontists to correct dental and facial irregularities. It is a type of appliance that is attached to the teeth and exert force on the jaws to help realign the teeth and improve the overall facial profile. If you are looking to undergo orthodontic treatment, it’s highly likely that your orthodontist may prescribe headgear as part of your treatment plan. In this article, we will discuss all you need to know about orthodontic headgear and how it can benefit you.
orthodontist bournemouth At Bournemouth Clinic, we are experienced and skilled in designing and fitting orthodontic headgear. We understand that every patient is unique and require a customised approach to their treatment. Our team of orthodontic experts will take a detailed history, examine your teeth and jaw, and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan that will help you achieve your desired outcome.
What is Orthodontic Headgear?
Orthodontic headgear is a device that is attached to the teeth and face to apply force on the jaws. It is typically used to correct malocclusions (improper bite), overcrowding, and other dental and facial irregularities. It works by exerting pressure on the teeth and jaws to gradually move them into their correct positions.
Orthodontic headgear can be classified into two main types: cervical-pull and high-pull headgear. Cervical-pull headgear is attached to a neck strap that goes around the neck, while high-pull headgear is attached to the braces and is designed to pull the upper jaw forward.
What are the Benefits of Orthodontic Headgear?
Orthodontic headgear offers several benefits, including:
1. Corrects Malocclusions: Malocclusions are dental irregularities that can cause problems with speech, eating and smiling. Orthodontic headgear exerts pressure on the teeth and jaws to gradually realign them into their correct positions, resulting in a healthy, functional bite.
2. Prevents Need for Extractions: One of the benefits of orthodontic headgear is that it can prevent the need for a tooth extraction. By creating more space in the mouth, it allows for proper alignment of the teeth and reduces overcrowding.
3. Improves Facial Profile: Orthodontic headgear can help improve the overall facial profile by adjusting the position of the jaws and teeth. This can result in a more attractive smile and facial appearance.
4. Prevents Jaw Surgery: Orthodontic headgear can also prevent the need for jaw surgery by correcting the position of the jaws. This is particularly important for patients with severe malocclusions that cannot be corrected with braces alone.
How to Care for Orthodontic Headgear?
Caring for your orthodontic headgear is essential for achieving optimal treatment outcomes. Here are some tips on how to care for your headgear:
1. Keep it Clean: Regularly clean your headgear using a soft toothbrush and mild soap. Rinse thoroughly with water and dry with a soft cloth.
2. Handle with Care: Avoid handling your headgear roughly or pulling it too hard. This can damage the appliance and affect its effectiveness in correcting your teeth.
3. Wear it as Prescribed: Follow your orthodontist’s instructions on how to wear your headgear. Wearing it too little or too much can affect the outcome of your treatment.
4. Store it in a Safe Place: When you are not wearing your headgear, store it in a safe place away from heat and direct sunlight. Keep it in a case to protect it from damage.
In conclusion, orthodontic headgear is a valuable appliance in correcting dental and facial irregularities. At Bournemouth Clinic, we have the expertise and experience to design and fit headgear that is tailored to your individual needs and treatment plan. Contact us today to book an appointment and start your journey to achieving a beautiful, healthy, and functional smile.
orthodontist bournemouth At Bournemouth Clinic, we are experienced and skilled in designing and fitting orthodontic headgear. We understand that every patient is unique and require a customised approach to their treatment. Our team of orthodontic experts will take a detailed history, examine your teeth and jaw, and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan that will help you achieve your desired outcome.
What is Orthodontic Headgear?
Orthodontic headgear is a device that is attached to the teeth and face to apply force on the jaws. It is typically used to correct malocclusions (improper bite), overcrowding, and other dental and facial irregularities. It works by exerting pressure on the teeth and jaws to gradually move them into their correct positions.
Orthodontic headgear can be classified into two main types: cervical-pull and high-pull headgear. Cervical-pull headgear is attached to a neck strap that goes around the neck, while high-pull headgear is attached to the braces and is designed to pull the upper jaw forward.
What are the Benefits of Orthodontic Headgear?
Orthodontic headgear offers several benefits, including:
1. Corrects Malocclusions: Malocclusions are dental irregularities that can cause problems with speech, eating and smiling. Orthodontic headgear exerts pressure on the teeth and jaws to gradually realign them into their correct positions, resulting in a healthy, functional bite.
2. Prevents Need for Extractions: One of the benefits of orthodontic headgear is that it can prevent the need for a tooth extraction. By creating more space in the mouth, it allows for proper alignment of the teeth and reduces overcrowding.
3. Improves Facial Profile: Orthodontic headgear can help improve the overall facial profile by adjusting the position of the jaws and teeth. This can result in a more attractive smile and facial appearance.
4. Prevents Jaw Surgery: Orthodontic headgear can also prevent the need for jaw surgery by correcting the position of the jaws. This is particularly important for patients with severe malocclusions that cannot be corrected with braces alone.
How to Care for Orthodontic Headgear?
Caring for your orthodontic headgear is essential for achieving optimal treatment outcomes. Here are some tips on how to care for your headgear:
1. Keep it Clean: Regularly clean your headgear using a soft toothbrush and mild soap. Rinse thoroughly with water and dry with a soft cloth.
2. Handle with Care: Avoid handling your headgear roughly or pulling it too hard. This can damage the appliance and affect its effectiveness in correcting your teeth.
3. Wear it as Prescribed: Follow your orthodontist’s instructions on how to wear your headgear. Wearing it too little or too much can affect the outcome of your treatment.
4. Store it in a Safe Place: When you are not wearing your headgear, store it in a safe place away from heat and direct sunlight. Keep it in a case to protect it from damage.
In conclusion, orthodontic headgear is a valuable appliance in correcting dental and facial irregularities. At Bournemouth Clinic, we have the expertise and experience to design and fit headgear that is tailored to your individual needs and treatment plan. Contact us today to book an appointment and start your journey to achieving a beautiful, healthy, and functional smile.