At Ashby Park Family Orthodontics, we know each smile is unique and deserves individual, specialized treatment. Our smile experts utilize the latest technology to create a new, beautiful smile just for you, which may include the Herbst Appliance.
The Herbst Appliance is a fixed, functional appliance designed to help your jaw and teeth grow into the smile of your dreams. The Herbst Appliance is recommended for orthodontic patients who have a Class II malocclusions and jaw growth disparities, such as overbites and underbites.
How Does the Herbst Appliance Work?
The Herbst Appliance is a fixed orthodontic appliance that is anchored by stainless-steel crowns on your back molars. The appliance then connects the crowns on your upper and lower molars using a metal tube. Through the placement of these metal tubes, the appliance slowly moves your jaw to align your bite and create a straighter smile.
At each appointment, our orthodontist will slightly tighten your Herbst Appliance to continue the advancement of your orthodontic treatment. This allows the orthodontist to control the position of your jaw to alleviate malocclusion. Overall, the process tends to take about 12 months to be effective and complete, depending on the patient’s needs.
How Do You Clean Your Herbst Appliance?
Just like with any other orthodontic appliance, maintaining proper dental hygiene is key. Keep your Herbst Appliance clean by simply using toothpaste and a toothbrush. Avoid sticky or crunchy foods that could break your appliance or get stuck in it when eating. When you go out, carry a toothbrush and toothpaste to ensure your appliance stays clean and you keep your smile healthy.
Does the Herbst Appliance Hurt?
It is normal for your mouth to feel tender for a few days after you initially get the appliance put on and after orthodontic appointments. Your appliance is ever-so-slightly changing your bite, so mild pain and discomfort is to be expected. It may also take you a few days to get used to your new appliance touching your tongue and cheeks.
An over-the-counter pain medication, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, will help ease any slight pain or discomfort you may experience. If your pain is severe or does not subside within a few days, contact the orthodontist as soon as possible.