Growth Modification Appliance (Herbst)

Treating bite problems proactively and at their source with growth modification appliances

Dental professionals have at their fingertips an array of oral appliances. Depending on the patient’s needs and how they are designed, appliances may protect the teeth or airways from conditions like bruxism or sleep-disordered breathing. They either function as cushions to prevent damage to the teeth and tissues, or these appliances temporarily move the jaw or other tissues to keep the airway open among those with conditions like Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Still, other appliance types provide permanent solutions for a range of conditions. Growth modification appliances get to the underlying source of conditions like crossbite and overbite. To correct these orthodontic issues, trust SHN Orthodontic of Mission Viejo, California. Our specialty practice is led by orthodontist, Dr. Shannon Hilgers Nissen. This advanced expertise means you can trust any recommendations Dr. Nissen makes for your child. 

Getting to know growth modification appliances 

True to their name, these devices facilitate modifications to a child’s development while they are still growing. As such, they can play a vital role in early or interceptive orthodontics. Such orthodontic interventions are proactive and designed to prevent complications that could affect your child’s healthy function, development, well-being, and quality of life. In addition, early intervention can help children avoid the need for more aggressive, costly, and invasive treatments later on (ranging from braces to jaw surgery, depending on need). After all, why treat or respond to problems when you can stay ahead of them and prevent them from occurring in the first place? 

The specific type of appliance depends on your child’s unique needs and anatomical features. Some appliances generate controlled pressure to guide the growth of teeth and jaws. Still, other forms of growth modification are designed to expand either an upper or lower arch. Herbst appliances, for instance, are designed to function like “artificial joints” between the lower and upper jaw. They are generally attached to the upper and lower back teeth and feature “arms” to aid in treatment. 

They may be advised for skeletal discrepancies among pediatric patients and to positively and efficiently influence the development of the upper and lower jaws. Herbst is also appropriate for certain patients with a deep overbite and for those who breathe through their mouth instead of their nose (because it doesn’t interfere with breathing). 

These and other devices in their category are generally easy to wear, do not require lengthy use, and are reliable—Herbst appliances have been around for more than 115 years! SHN Orthodontics, too, is not going anywhere. Schedule an appointment with our talented, third-generation orthodontist, Dr. Nissen, today. Our team in Mission Viejo, CA, awaits your call at (949) 830-4101.