Orthodontic Headgear Baton Rouge
Headgear is an orthodontic appliance utilized to support proper jaw alignment and growth and to correct one's bite. There are multiple types of orthodontic headgear, including headgear that is designed specifically for children still undergoing bone development. Unlike braces, headgear is worn partially outside of a patient's mouth. Your orthodontist might recommend headgear for you if your bite is significantly out of alignment. A non-aligned bite, also known scientifically as a “malocclusion,” means that your lower and upper teeth don't fit together in an ideally functional way. This can lead to premature tooth wear, accidental lip or tongue bites, and even pain.
Who Needs Orthodontic Headgear?
Headgear is needed primarily by those who need to correct severe teeth and jaw misalignment and general tooth overcrowding. Typically, it is used for children prior to their bones finishing their growth or fusing together. Headgear works by exerting force onto the lower or upper jaw to create space and eliminate overlap and overcrowding. Orthodontic headgear is only practical when a child is still growing, so it's important to take advantage of the treatment window so that your child can avoid corrective surgery later in life as an adult.
What to Expect When Wearing Orthodontic Headgear
Orthodontic headgear is typically worn between 1 to 2 years. Some discomfort is natural, especially when wearing headgear for the first time, though this will subside as your mouth becomes acclimated. After that, you will primarily notice discomfort mostly during the time that your orthodontist adjusts your headgear’s pressure. Soft foods and drinks such as fruit smoothies are great for lessening any pain sensations within the gums while also putting less strain on your jaws and teeth.
How to Keep Headgear Clean
You can keep your orthodontic headgear clean by following these three simple steps:
- Wash the hard parts of your headgear every day with warm water and gentle soap, making sure to rinse off thoroughly.
- Straps and soft pads need to be washed likewise. However, this can be done every few days with warm water and a gentle detergent. Be sure that your pads are thoroughly dried before wearing them.
- Keep brushing and flossing your teeth as instructed by your orthodontist to keep your braces and the pieces of the headgear inside of your mouth functioning properly.
Local Orthodontic Headgear Bite Treatment
Headgear is designed to correct tooth misalignments and severe jaw malocclusion. Although there are several different types, your orthodontist will be able to select the right headgear for your oral health needs. Although headgear is typically worn by children that are still growing, it is possible that teens and adults will need to use headgear, too. If you're interested in making your smile the best that it can be, reach out to Fruge Orthodontics today to schedule an appointment and evaluate your treatment options!