When you think of orthodontics, your mind may go straight toward braces, but there are many other devices used in orthodontic care. At Kavanaugh Orthodontics, we will evaluate and treat each patient with a customized treatment plan ideal for their unique situation. The end goal is always a picture-perfect smile, but the path to get there may look different for everyone.
What Is Orthodontic Headgear?
A common technique for teeth straightening is, of course, traditional braces. But sometimes braces on their own just aren’t enough. When that happens, we may supplement treatment with other appliances, such as headgear. Used in conjunction with your braces, orthodontic headgear is prescribed to be worn for a certain amount of time each day. That time frame can vary but can be anywhere from 8-14 hours per day. The device itself consists of a strap that rests behind the neck with a wire that connects to brackets inside the mouth.
What Are the Benefits of Orthodontic Headgear?
Bite Issues: The addition of headgear is implemented for situations of severe overbite or underbite. An overbite is when the front teeth point forward, causing your lower teeth to meet the top in an unfavorable position; An underbite is when your lower teeth are positioned more forward than the upper teeth. What headgear will do is gently pull the teeth in the direction needed to guide proper growth. This will impact both the teeth and the jaw.
Time: One of the largest benefits is that adding headgear can expedite treatment. Instead of a complicated, lengthy treatment to eliminate severe bite issues, the force the function of the headgear provides will work to move teeth more quickly.
More than cosmetic: Even though some orthodontic treatments are pursued for cosmetic reasons, there are also many times that overall health and well-being can be a reason for care in our office. The use of headgear as part of the treatment will gently move the jaw, helping avoid the potential future quality of life issues, including sleep apnea and TMJ.
Orthodontic care in the Kansas City and Sedalia areas
Problems with teeth can range from mild to severe, with many options to choose from when formulating a treatment plan. Dr. Kurt Kavanaugh and his team have the knowledge and skills necessary to craft the perfect roadmap for you to go from blah to TA-DA! Request an appointment to receive a free, no obligation consultation.
