All About Reverse Pull Headgear and Braces in Greenville, SC: A Proactive Approach to Your Child’s Best Smile!
Headgear?! What in the world is it, and why does my child need it?
If you’ve ever had orthodontic treatment recommended for your grade-schooler, you may leave the office with lots of questions. The fear of the unknown is almost always MUCH worse than reality. Our goal with this post is to help you understand the what, why, when, and how behind headgear, and in particular the Reverse Pull Headgear Braces in Greenville, which is sometimes recommended for young growing kiddos. This type of treatment is part of what is called “Phase I” or “Early Intervention” Treatment, so first here’s a brief summary of the WHAT and WHY of early orthodontic treatment:
What is Phase I or Early Intervention Orthodontic Treatment?
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this stage, an orthodontist can identify potential issues such as crowding, crossbites, or jaw discrepancies. Early detection allows for timely intervention, which can simplify future treatments and, in some cases, prevent the need for more extensive procedures later on.
As a parent, ensuring your child’s health and well-being is a top priority. When it comes to dental health, early intervention can play a crucial role in preventing future complications. Phase I orthodontic treatment, also known as early interceptive orthodontics, is a proactive approach designed to address developmental dental issues in children, typically between the ages of 7 and 10. Phase I treatment can involve different appliances, such as a palatal expander, space maintainers, partial braces, or other functional growth appliances such a reverse pull headgear.This treatment aims to correct problems early, guiding the proper growth of the jaw and the alignment of incoming permanent teeth.
Why Phase I Treatment?: Benefits of Early Intervention Orthodontics
Implementing early intervention orthodontics offers several advantages:
- Guides Proper Jaw Growth: Ensures the upper and lower jaws develop in harmony, reducing the risk of bite issues.
- Prevents Severe Dental Problems: Addresses issues like crowding, blocked out or impacted teeth, and protruding teeth before they become more pronounced.
- Improves Oral Function: Enhances abilities such as chewing and speaking by correcting misalignments.
- Boosts Self-Esteem: A healthier, more attractive smile can significantly impact a child’s confidence.
- Potentially Reduces Treatment Time: Early correction can lessen the complexity and duration of future orthodontic treatments.
- Reduce the Need for Costly Future Surgical Treatment: Addressing skeletal issues during growth can minimize or eliminate the need for surgical intervention later in life.
What is Reverse Pull Headgear?
There are a few different types of headgear, all of which are implemented to utilize a patient’s natural growth potential to direct that growth in a particular direction to correct jaw relationships, and consequently, the bite.
Many people are most familiar with what’s called “cervical headgear,” the type that has a strap that goes around the back of the neck (think Darla in Finding Nemo). This is used to correct an OVERbite (upper teeth stick out further than the lower teeth, the technical term: class II malocclusions).
But “reverse pull headgear,” also called a facemask, is a treatment that is used to correct an UNDERbite (lower teeth in front of the upper teeth, technical term: class III malocclusions) in young kids. Unfortunately, we don’t have a cute cartoon that displays this type of headgear yet! 😉 This underbite is caused by a mismatch in jaw positions, where the lower jaw protrudes or wants to “outgrow” the upper jaw, leading to functional and aesthetic concerns.
The facemask is utilized with an appliance, typically an expander, that the facemask can attach to. This can be used with or without braces, depending on the other goals of treatment, and what your orthodontist recommends.
How Does Reverse-Pull Headgear Work?
The goal of the headgear is to orthopedically guide and encourage the upper jaw forward to better match the position of the lower jaw. The facemask consists of a framework with two pads, one that rests on the chin and the other on the forehead. Elastics are then applied from the frame of the facemask to small attachments on the appliance in the mouth (usually an expander), to place forward pressure on the upper jaw (maxilla) to encourage its proper growth and alignment with the lower jaw.
Don’t worry, your child won’t be wearing their headgear to school (although they can if they want! ;). But by wearing the appliance as prescribed, usually after school and through the night while they sleep (typically for 12 to 14 hours daily), the gentle forces guide the upper jaw into the correct position over time. This treatment is most effective in children and young adolescents whose jaws are still developing, with the optimal age range being between 7 and 10 years old.
What Happens If We Don’t Do Anything?
With no intervention, this growth pattern continues throughout the child’s growth until early adulthood, and depending on the severity, may require something more extensive in order to fix the issue such as surgery or tooth extractions. Orthodontic treatment in these early years of growth is crucial in order to give these kiddos the BEST chance of avoiding those things in the future!
Why Does My Child Need Braces AND the Facemask?
While the reverse pull headgear addresses skeletal discrepancies, braces are used to align the teeth properly and achieve the bite correction that is so vital to proper function. When used together, reverse-pull headgear and braces provide a comprehensive solution for achieving optimal jaw alignment, bite correction, and a harmonious smile.
Choosing the Right Orthodontist for Your Child
Orthodontists are specialists, not only in the alignment of teeth and bites, but also in the growth and development of the jaws, face, skull, and teeth. Of course, continuing routine dental care with your regular family or pediatric dentist is crucial to maintaining your child’s oral health! But be sure to select an experienced orthodontic specialist to evaluate and continue to monitor your child’s dental and facial development. Here at our office, we will guide you through the process, ensuring that your child’s treatment plan and timing are tailored to their specific needs. At our Greenville, SC orthodontic practice, we are dedicated to providing personalized, high-quality care to help you achieve a beautiful and functional smile!
Conclusion
Phase I orthodontic treatment is a proactive approach to addressing dental issues before they escalate. By intervening early (only when necessary!), you can help guide your child’s jaw development, ensure proper alignment of permanent teeth, and set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. If you notice any signs of potential orthodontic problems or if your child is approaching the age of 7, consider scheduling an evaluation with a trusted orthodontist. Early action can lead to optimal results and a confident, beautiful smile for your child!
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you or your child are experiencing underbite concerns, early intervention with reverse pull headgear and braces can make a significant difference. Our dedicated team in Greenville, SC is here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring a personalized and effective treatment experience.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile!
About the Authors:
Dr. Sam Titus, DDS, MS: Orthodontist in Westfield, IN
Dr. Blake Tollison: Orthodontist in Greenville, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: At what age is reverse pull headgear most effective?
A: This treatment is most effective in children between the ages of 6 and 10, as their jaws are still developing, allowing for better skeletal modifications. Waiting too long may miss the optimal growth window and either lessen the efficacy of treatment or make correction impossible altogether.
Q: Is wearing reverse pull headgear uncomfortable?
A: Some INITIAL discomfort is normal as you adjust to the appliance. However, most patients acclimate quickly, and any soreness typically subsides within a few days.
Q: How long will treatment take?
A: The duration varies based on individual needs, but on average, patients wear the headgear for 12 to 18 months, often with braces for all or part of that time period to idealize tooth and bite alignment.
Q: Can my child participate in sports while wearing headgear?
A: Yes! We want them to live their normal lives! We ask that they remove the headgear during physical activities, and replace it right after they’re finished. We provide guidance on safely managing the appliance during such times.
