The following instructions are to be followed when starting and/or wearing headgear during orthodontic treatment. These instructions are to be followed exactly, or expected tooth movement from the headgear will not be observed, and necessary treatment progress will be delayed.

PURPOSE FOR THE HEADGEAR:

Our purpose in orthodontics is to make the teeth move to the proper position. Headgear is used to move front teeth back. When pulling against the back teeth, these teeth have a tendency to move forward, which can ruin the position of the back teeth. Another reason headgear is worn is to move the teeth farther back in the mouth to make the position of the back teeth as it should be.

1. Getting used to your headgear.
   The appliance should be placed on the teeth as you were instructed in the office. The doctors will determine how many hours is necessary to satisfy proper correction. You do not have to wear your amount of hours straight through. Start with after school then after dinner or activities. You may want to keep your times recorded until you get used to it.
2. Soreness is normal when first starting your headgear.
   Everyone experiences some discomfort at first just the same as when you begin exercising muscles when you are not used to it. Soreness will eventually decrease.
3. Try not to take the headgear off while sleeping, but this may happen. Your body will get adjusted so this will not happen. Wearing headgear during awaking hours will help you get used to it.
   You should strive to wear the headgear every night, all night!
4. Our requirement for most individuals, unless told otherwise, is to be successfully wearing the headgear 12-14 hours per day.
5. Never go a complete 24-hour period without wearing the headgear.
   For each day or wearing period that is completely missed, the progress of moving teeth is delayed by four days!
6. When removing the facebow headgear, do not attempt to wiggle the facebow up and down. This can result in breakage. To remove properly, pull straight out with bow. If this is difficult, pull gently on one side of the facebow until it pops, then gently slide the other side out.
7. Never attempt to adjust your headgear yourself. If you find it is difficult to place or move your headgear, please call for an appointment. Never increase the pressure of your headgear if it feels loose, allow the doctors to do any adjustments.
8. Keep your headgear in the case if it's not on your face. Keep headgear away from dogs as they will chew it up and it will cost you a replacement fee and lost time.