Headgear
An extraoral orthodontic appliance that applies force via attachments to the molar bands or facebow to control skeletal and dental growth.
Full Definition
Headgear is a removable extraoral device worn for a prescribed number of hours per day, typically 10–14 hours. It comprises a facebow (inner and outer bows) attached to molar tubes, connected by straps to a cervical, occipital, or combination pull headcap. In clinical documentation, the type of pull (cervical, high-pull, straight-pull) and the prescribed hours of wear must be clearly stated. Editors must note that 'headgear' is written as one word in British orthodontic literature. Safety information regarding headgear injury must be accurately reproduced in patient information materials. It should not be confused with removable functional appliances despite both having extraoral components.
Usage
Usage note: Write as one word: 'headgear', not 'head gear'. Always specify the pull direction and wear-time prescription in clinical documents.
In Context
- "High-pull headgear was prescribed for 14 hours per day to restrict maxillary growth." — Treatment plan document
- "The patient information leaflet included a mandatory headgear safety section detailing the risk of eye injury." — Patient information leaflet