Headgear is an appliance that is used to correct a Class II malocclusion (upper jaw or teeth ahead of lower jaw or teeth). It consists of two bands that fit around the upper first molars and a metal appliance that fits partially inside the mouth and partially outside of the face that is usually worn to sleep. Headgear can distalize the upper molar teeth and can also guide the growth of the face and jaw. The main disadvantage to headgear is that it requires comoliance... that is you need to remember to put it on every night for it to work efficiently! It works great for a comloiant patient! Because it works with the growth of the jaws, it is usually worn for 12 to 18 months. Good compliance can shorten the duration; poor or moderate compliance can lengthen the time it is worn.

Teeth and jaw change with headgear only
Class II Deep Bite (Before)
Class II Deep Bite (After)
Severe Class II treated with braces and headgear
Class II Deep Overbite (Before)
Class II Deep Overbite (After)
Severe Class II deep bite malocclusion treated with headgear and braces