The Herbst appliance is very effective in correcting large overbites due to small lower jaws in patients who are growing. The Herbst appliance is used to enhance the growth of the lower jaw in a forward direction, while at the same time applying pressure to the upper jaw in a backwards direction. Expansion may also be achieved in the upper jaw if desired.

A tube and rod work together similar to a shock absorber to connect the upper and lower jaws. This does not interfere with opening and closing the mouth or with eating. Side to side movement is somewhat restricted. The Herbst appliance is cemented on the back molars and is in place and active 24 hours a day. It is generally worn full time for 12 months along with front braces. Once it is removed, braces are added to the side teeth for an additional 12 months to complete tooth alignment.

An overbite requiring correction:


Here is Some Advice About What to Do at Home
At first, patients may notice some tenderness to the teeth, the muscles in the cheeks and near the jaw joints. This is normal and should begin to disappear within a week. If it persists longer, please call the office. Rinsing with hot salt water will help take away the tenderness. The insides of the cheeks may be irritated by the appliance for the first week. Patients may find it easier to sleep on your back so there is not as much pressure to the cheeks.

Use wax as needed to cover the Herbst appliance arms for comfort the first week. If the rod slides out of the tube while opening, open wide again and guide the rod back into the tube as you close. If the screw or crown comes loose, save all pieces and call the orthodontist's office so they can repair the appliance as soon as possible to not delay treatment.

These foods can DAMAGE your Herbst Appliance or cause problems with your teeth and gums:

• Popcorn
• Ice
• Gum
• Sticky Food like Caramel
• Hard Foods like Nuts or Jolly Ranchers

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