 |
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Here is a before and after picture of someone who had a Herbst Appliance.
|
|
|
| In our office, the Herbst Appliance has been effective in helping correct large overbites in our growing patients. Most have adapted to wearing the appliance with little, if any, problems and find it much easier to wear than many other similar appliances. |
This is how the appliance works:
| The Herbst appliance is very effective in correcting
large overbites due to small lower jaws in patients who are growing. The
Herbst appliance is used to enhance the growth of the lower jaw in a forward
direction, while at the same time applying pressure to the upper jaw in
a backwards direction. Expansion may also be achieved in the upper jaw
if desired.
A tube and rod work together similar to a shock absorber
to connect the upper and lower jaws. This does not interfere with opening
and closing the mouth or with eating. Side to side movement is somewhat
restricted. The Herbst appliance is cemented on the back molars and is
in place and active 24 hours a day. It is generally worn full time for
12 months along with front braces. Once it is removed, braces are added
to the side teeth for an additional 12 months to complete tooth alignment.
|
| At first, patients may notice some tenderness to the
teeth, the muscles in the cheeks, and near the jaw joints. This is
normal and should begin to disappear within a week. If it persists longer,
please call the orthodontist's office. Rinsing with hot salt water will
help take away the tenderness.
The insides of the cheeks may be irritated by the appliance for the first week. Patients may find it easier to sleep on your back so there is not as much pressure to the cheeks. Use was as needed to cover the Herbst appliance arms for comfort the first week. If the rod slides out of the tube while opening, open wide again and guide the rod back into the tube as you close. If the screw or crown comes loose, save all pieces and call the orthodontist's office so they can repair the appliance as soon as possible to not delay treatment. |
These foods can DAMAGE your Herbst
Appliance
or cause problems with your
teeth and gums
|
Sticky Food like Caramel Hard Foods like Nuts or Jolly Ranchers |
 |
|