Headgear
An extraoral orthodontic appliance that transmits orthopedic or orthodontic forces from the dentition to the face or cranium using an external frame attached to a neck strap or head cap.
Full Definition
Headgear is a removable extraoral appliance consisting of an inner bow, which engages molar tubes or a facebow, and an outer bow connected to a neck strap (cervical-pull), a cranial strap (high-pull), or a combination strap (straight-pull). The direction of force application determines whether the effect is primarily orthopedic (restraining maxillary forward growth) or orthodontic (distalizing upper molars). It is commonly used in growing Class II patients to restrict maxillary advancement. Editors should note that 'headgear' is written as one word, not 'head gear,' and must be distinguished from 'facemask,' which applies forward protraction forces rather than retraction.
Usage
Usage note: Write as one word: 'headgear,' not 'head gear.' Specify the pull direction (cervical, high, or straight) when precision is required.
In Context
- "The patient was instructed to wear cervical-pull headgear for 14 hours per day to restrict maxillary forward displacement." — Patient treatment record
- "Headgear compliance was recorded using a timer embedded in the facebow attachment." — Clinical trial methods section