Patient Guides

Will I need another brace?

You may be asked to wear a removable brace with the headgear. It is also likely that you will have a fixed brace to straighten your teeth either at the same time as the headgear or at a later stage.

Will headgear be painful?

Your teeth may be sore for 3-5 days after the headgear is fitted and may feel slightly wobbly. If painful, simple painkillers such as those you would normally take for a headache should be used – please follow the instructions on the packet. The facebow and neck strap can rub at first but this should only last a few days. Tell your orthodontist if the headgear is rubbing so it can be adjusted if necessary.

Are there any special instructions?

Yes. Safety is most important, especially when putting the headgear on and taking it off. Your orthodontist will show you how to fit and remove the headgear. You must follow these instructions carefully. Important points to remember are;

• very rarely, eye injuries have occurred whilst wearing headgear. If this should happen, it must be treated as a medical emergency. Attend your local Accident and Emergency department immediately.
• always remove your headgear straps before the facebow,
• never fit or remove your headgear in one piece by pulling it over your face/head,
• do not wear it when playing contact sports or during rough play,
• always ensure that the safety mechanism(s) of the headgear and facebow are in place to prevent accidental removal,
• if any part of your headgear comes off during sleep, stop wearing the headgear and ring up your orthodontist for an appointment as soon as is reasonably possible. Do not wait for your next routine appointment,
• bring your headgear to every appointment and tell your orthodontist if there are any problems. 

What about tooth brushing?

You should remove the headgear to brush your teeth. It is important that you brush your teeth for at least 3 minutes, twice per day. Use a fluoride toothpaste. if possible, carry a brush with you for use after lunch. To further protect the teeth, use an alcohol free mouthwash daily at a different time to when you brush your teeth. Avoid eating or rinsing for 20 minutes after use. Sugary snacks/drinks and poor cleaning of your teeth and appliance will lead to permanent damage to your teeth. 

Can I eat with the headgear on?

No. You will need to remove your headgear at meal times.

How often do I need an appointment?

You will need regular appointments (about every 6-8 weeks) to review the progress of your headgear. 

Do I still need to see my regular dentist?

Yes. It will be important for you to continue to have check-ups with your regular dentist throughout orthodontic treatment so that your teeth can be checked for decay.