Is it necessary to wear a headgear to fix your child's teeth? (Orthodontic Headgear) - Let's learn about this without fear!

Does your child's upper teeth seem to be protruding too far forward? Or does the lower jaw protrude and when the mouth is closed, the lower set of teeth is in front of the upper set of teeth? When treating such teeth and jaw alignment problems, the orthodontist may recommend that your child wear a 'headgear'. Hearing this name may make you and your child feel a little scared and uncomfortable. But this is something that will help a lot to beautify your child's future smile and protect the health of their teeth. So let's talk about this precisely and simply.

Simply put, what is Orthodontic Headgear?

Orthodontic Headgear is a device that helps your child's teeth and jaws move into the correct position. Doctors call this a malocclusion, or "malocclusion." Simply put, this is when the upper and lower teeth don't fit together properly when the mouth is closed.

If this problem is not treated properly, over time, problems can arise not only with the teeth, but also with the jaw. It can make it difficult to speak and even eat. Also, the child may feel ashamed and insecure about their smile.

Orthodontic headgear works by applying very gentle pressure to a child's teeth and jaw. Since children's jawbones are still developing, this gentle pressure encourages the jawbones to move into the correct position over time.

What are the main problems that can be fixed with headgear?

This mainly corrects three problems with the position of the teeth and jaw. Let's take a look at what they are.

Are there types of headgear?

Yes, there are three main types. The doctor will choose the right type depending on the child's problem. It may be necessary to use this with or without braces.

• Cervical pull headgear: This is used for `Overjet` and `Overbite` conditions. In this, a `U`-shaped wire (facebow) is attached to the teeth behind the child's upper jaw. This wire is then connected to a strap that goes around the neck. The gentle pull from this strap pushes the upper jaw back, helping it to move into the correct position.

• High pull headgear: This is also used for `Overjet` and `Overbite` like the above type. The main difference is that this one has two straps. One goes behind the neck and the other goes over the head. This corrects the upper jaw by pulling it back and slightly up.

• Reverse pull headgear: This is used for `Underbite` conditions. That is, when the lower jaw is protruding. This is done by pulling the upper jaw forward. In this, there is a vertical frame in front of the child's face. It is held in place by a pad on the forehead and a cup on the chin. A wire coming from this frame is attached to the teeth behind the child's upper jaw, pulling the upper jaw forward.

Do children still use this headgear?

In fact, it is not used as much as it used to be. This is because alternative treatments have become available. For example, `clear aligners` (transparent aligners) can be used to correct minor teeth alignment problems. Also, `Herbst` devices can be fitted inside the mouth to correct jaw alignment. These are often preferred by children because they are not visible from the outside.

What to expect during treatment?

First, the doctor will fit the headgear to the child. Then, you need to go and show it on the scheduled dates. Each time, the doctor will check the condition of the teeth and jaw and adjust the pressure of the headgear.

On the first day, the doctor will give you detailed instructions. Everything from how many hours a day to how to keep it clean. The most important thing is to help your child wear it exactly as the doctor says, without missing a single day. Even missing a day can set back the progress of the treatment.

Safety is very important!

For the safety of the child and the device, headgear should be removed during these times:

• When eating.
• When drinking anything other than water (it's probably okay if you drink through a straw, but ask your doctor).
• When playing, running, or doing any activity that could cause a fall or injury.

Although you can wear it while brushing and flossing, many children prefer to do it with it off. It's easier.

How long will this need to be put on?

Most often, the device is worn for 12-14 hours a day. The total treatment period can be as short as 6 months for some children, and as long as several years for others. It depends on the nature of the child's problem and how well and consistently the child uses it.

As a parent, how can you make this easier for your child?

Let's be honest. Wearing a device like this in public can be very embarrassing and emotionally difficult for a child. It can also be a source of ridicule at school and among friends. So, it's normal for a child to not want to wear it and try to hide it and take it off.

The best thing you can do as a parent is to understand your child's feelings and support them. Encourage them by saying, "I understand you don't want to put this on, son/daughter, but if we do this right, we can get rid of this quickly."

Here are some more ideas to help you:

• Make the first appointment on a Friday: If possible, make the first appointment on a Friday. This will give your child time to get used to the headgear at home over the weekend.
• Find other ways to have fun: You can't run around and play sports while wearing the headgear. But plan fun things to do at home during that time. Get him involved in things like playing board games, watching a movie, or reading a book.
• Have soft, tasty foods ready: During the first few days of treatment, you may experience toothache and discomfort in your mouth. For such days, keep soft foods ready, such as ice cream, yogurt, smoothies, and macaroni and cheese.
• Help with good sleep: It can be difficult for a baby to sleep in this position at first. Especially a baby who is used to sleeping on his stomach will need to get used to sleeping on his side. To help with this, get a comfortable pillow with good neck support.

Are there any side effects to this?

Orthodontic headgear is a very safe and effective treatment method. However, sometimes minor discomfort can occur.

• It is normal for teeth to hurt in the first few days.
• As the jawbone and teeth move into their correct position, there may be slight movement and pain in the teeth.

These things can help reduce this pain:

• Place an ice pack on the painful area of ​​your jaw.
• Give soft foods until the pain subsides.
• You can give a painkiller. But, ask your doctor about it and only give the type and dosage he recommends.

When do you need to talk to the doctor?

Talk to your child's orthodontist in these situations:

• If a piece of headgear breaks or comes loose .
• If the child is in severe pain or discomfort .

For the treatment to be successful, it is essential that the headgear is in proper working order and fits the child perfectly.

Orthodontic Headgear, Teeth Alignment, Teeth Straightening, Braces, Overjet, Overbite, Underbite, Teeth Positioning, Pediatric Dentistry, Jaw Alignment