Reverse pull headgear

The headgear attaches to two hooks with elastics. These elastics can be attached straight to the headgear or can be criss-crossed. Criss-crossing the elastics will take pressure off of the corners of the mouth and reduce irritation. It will be tighter this way, but it’s not a problem.

The teeth will feel sore or tender for the first few days. Sleeping will be different at first until you get used to sleeping with the headgear on your face.

If the bands or expander which the headgear attaches to becomes loose, then discontinue the reverse pull headgear and call our office.

The more that you wear the headgear, the greater the effect. Because of its design, vision is not greatly impaired. Therefore, it can be worn during homework, movie-watching, or video games. It should also be worn to sleep – this is the most important time! Wear your headgear consistently every day to get the proper orthodontic benefit. Try not to skip any days; this will cause additional soreness and less effective movement. Never play rough while your headgear is on.

First, be sure that the pads on the headgear are kept clean and dry. These pads are stickers that are attached, and if they become too dirty or worn, they can be replaced. You were provided one replacement set when you first received your headgear, but if you need more, let us know. Some patients have found that placing an additional cushion between the chin and the headgear is helpful (a cloth, gauze, trim a shoe insole to fit…our patients are creative!!).