Facemask (Reverse-Pull Headgear)
If worn consistently the facemask is designed to move the upper jaw and molars forward to correct your “underbite”. This helps to both balance your profile, prevent excessive Class III growth and correct your anterior crossbite.
Important Guidelines
Try to put your facemask on right after school. After eating dinner & brushing your teeth, put your facemask on before you go to bed.
Sleep is the most active period of growth – so this is the best time to wear your facemask!
It may take anywhere from 1-4 weeks to get used to wearing the facemask throughout the night.
Consistency is key! Our teeth will begin to move the most after the 12-hour mark.
How to insert your facemask
Look in the back of your mouth at the big tubes on your upper molars-the Headgear goes into those big tubes located on the lowest part of the molar bands.
Put one side in first, then press the inside bow slightly to get the other side in. Then push both sides in all the way back until you hit resistance.
How to remove your facemask
Gently remove one side first, then the other side. When removing, never pull from the OUTSIDE bow.
Take hold with two hands on the loops on the INNER BOW next to the molars. It is important to remove it gently so you do not loosen your bands!
Please remove your headgear If you are playing sports or doing anything active.
Facemask Homecare
You’ll experience the most sensitivity during the first few days. Your teeth may be tender for the first few days of wearing your headgear. This tenderness will disappear as you adjust to the new pressures.
It’s important that you wear the headgear as close to 14-16 hours in a row during those first 3 days, until you get used to it.
If you’re experiencing excessive pressure or pain, which doesn’t subside after the first few days, please discontinue use of your headgear and contact the office or Dr. Yoon directly.
If the headgear gets distorted bring it into the office for an adjustment, do not try to fix it yourself.
Always be careful when removing your headgear. If the headgear is removed carelessly, the part that fits in your mouth and attaches to your teeth could injure your lips, cheeks, face and possibly your eyes.
Never remove the headgear until the straps have been disconnected.
Never lift the headgear over your face.
Never wear the headgear when running or playing sports.
Take your headgear with you to every appointment.