Headgear Used to Fix Overjet
A lot of people are not going to be happy that they have to wear braces, so to find out that there will be headgear involved as well will not be an easy pill to swallow. If the orthodontist suggests headgear, it is vital that it is worn as they are put in place for a purpose. There are two reasons why you may have one fitted:
- If the back teeth are not far back enough the headgear and brace will help to move them back into position.
- When the front teeth are the ones that are being straightened, the headgear will prevent the back ones from moving forward and then needing to be dealt with.
What to Expect
The good news is that it is not likely that it will have to be worn for 24 hours a day. For most people it will range from 8 to 16. When the headgear is first put in place it is likely that it will be quite painful, but after 3 -5 days, it should not be a problem any more. There is also the risk that it will feel unstable, but as long as you are careful, there will not be a problem with this. If you do feel that the pain is quite strong, there is no problem with taking over the counter painkillers for a few days.
A further concern can be the straps and the fact that they can rub. When this happens, you should not just ignore it and take painkillers, but go back to the orthodontist so that they can make adjustments and refit it in a way that is much more comfortable. The headgear should be removed when you brush your teeth, and cleaning during this time should be thorough. Fluoride toothpaste should be used, and the teeth cleaned twice a day. When brushing, ensure that it lasts for at least three minutes a time.
Things to Remember:
- Still visit your own dentist for check-ups as well as visiting the orthodontist.
- Remove the headgear whenever you are eating.
- The more often you wear it, the better the results will be.
- When removing the headgear, you should always take away the straps prior to taking off the facebow.
- Always take it apart and do not just try to pull it away still in one piece.
- Rough sports are best avoided, but when you insist on playing, don’t do it with the headgear in place.
FIVE-STAR PATIENT TESTIMONIALS
When starting the procedure, you need to be aware that there are going to be regular appointments with the orthodontist required. You are going to have to visit them roughly every 6 to 8 weeks. You will have to take the headgear with you so that they can carry out any alterations or updates that have to be carried out. When you are there it is the opportunity to let them know if you have any concerns, or if the pain is lasting longer than anticipated and they can check to see why this is.
Contact Us
IVANOV Orthodontic Experts
12866 Biscayne Blvd, North Miami, FL 33181
https://www.google.com/maps?cid=154326063970645489
Call us at (786) 540-1919 to schedule a free orthodontic exam.
