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Herbst Appliance Treatment for Overbite.

A Herbst appliance is an orthodontic device that helps align the upper and lower jaws, correcting bite discrepancies such as an overbite. If your child is suffering from an overbite, this functional appliance works 24 hours a day to adjust jaw growth.

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How Does A Herbst Appliance Work?

The Herbst appliance helps align the upper and lower jaws by gently moving the lower jaw forward and the upper jaw back. This not only improves the bite but also enhances the jawline and overall facial balance.

It’s fixed to your child’s molars, so there’s no risk of losing it or forgetting to wear it. At each orthodontic visit, we’ll monitor progress and may add small “shims” to guide jaw development. If needed, we can also expand the upper jaw using a built-in mechanism on the appliance.

Does It Hurt To Wear A Herbst Appliance?

Wearing a Herbst appliance isn’t painful, but your child may feel some jaw soreness at first as their mouth adjusts. Over-the-counter pain relievers usually help ease any discomfort.

The appliance might also irritate the cheeks early on, but this typically fades as the mouth builds tolerance. Saltwater rinses can soothe sore spots during the adjustment period.

For side sleepers, the appliance may press into the cheeks at night. If that happens, try encouraging your child to sleep on their back using supportive pillows to make the position more comfortable.

Frequently Asked Questions.

Does It Hurt To Wear a Herbst Appliance?

When you first have the Carriere Motion Appliance installed, there may be some slight discomfort in the cheek as your mouth becomes accustomed to the appliance and elastics. This discomfort should disappear in about a week.

The molars and canine teeth that are attached to the appliance may experience mild soreness as they start to move. Over-the-counter pain relievers may be taken to increase your comfort.

How Long Does Treatment with a Herbst Appliance Last?

Most patients wear their Herbst appliances for about a year, but positive results are seen much earlier than the 12-month mark. For patients with severe overbites, the appliance may need to be worn longer.

What Does a Herbst Appliance Look Like?

Many times we recommend braces options that are not removable for children—metal, ceramic or hidden braces, as most children don’t have the maturity to wear them well (the recommended 18-22 hours a day. That being said, some children may comply just fine! Also, older children and teens may be candidates for clear aligners if they’re committed to the requirements. Your Atlanta orthodontist can walk you through your options for braces for kids.

Will a Herbst Appliance Change the Shape of My Child’s Face?

Wearing a Herbst appliance will change the shape of your child’s face in a positive way. By pulling the upper jaw backward and pushing the lower jaw forward, this creates a more defined jawline and stronger chin, both considered highly attractive in both boys and girls.

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