Orthodontic Headgear
Orthodontic headgear consists of three major components:
- Face bow: firstly the face-bow (or J-Hooks), which fits with a metal arch onto headgear tubes attached to the rear upper and lower molars. This face bow then extends out of the mouth and around the face. Both upper and lower face-bows may be used. J-Hooks are different in that they hook into the patient’s mouth and attach directly to the brace (see photo for example of J-Hooks).
- Head-cap: the second part consists of a head-cap, which consists of a number of straps fitting around the head. This is then attached with elastic bands or springs to the face-bow. Additional straps and safety attachments will be used to ensure comfort and safety (see photo).
- Attachment: the third and final component (typically rubber bands, elastic or springs) joins the face bow or J-Hooks and the head cap together, providing the force to move the teeth backwards.