A Herbst® appliance is an orthodontic device used to treat bite alignment. The appliance applies pressure to the lower jaw, slowly correcting the problem. It is usually worn for a period of several months to a year and half. Many patients wear this simultaneously with braces as part of a treatment plan.
Invented in 1904 by Doctor Emil Herbst, the Herbst® appliance was used until the early 1930s, at which time many orthodontists quit using it in favor of using braces alone. Over the next 30 years, more patient-friendly versions of the appliance were developed, and by the early 1970s, many orthodontists recommended the Herbst® appliance again to correct the upper and lower jaw line in their patients. A protruding jaw line can cause the teeth to push forward and not meet properly in the front or back. Not only can this result in speech problems, but if not treated, the protrusion may result in a slight facial deformity.
Doctors install the Herbst® appliance by first inserting the main components, which consist of stainless steel crowns that cover the four main back teeth. Metal rods are then placed on the sides of the back teeth, connecting the lower and top crowns. This allows the mouth to open and move side to side but keeps the jaws from returning to their old position. The rods and crowns slowly align the jaw during the specified time period during which the person has to wear the contraption.
Individuals who wear this device may experience some pain and discomfort the first few days after the Herbst® appliance is placed on the teeth. The appliance may also make the gums and tongue sore. Orthodontists advise patients to use dental wax and a soothing numbing gel to help with irritation. Many people also find that it is hard to talk initially after getting this device put on their teeth. After about a week or so, patients generally become accustomed to having the appliance in their mouth.
On occasion, the Herbst® appliance may become loose and the rods could pop out. Sometimes the rod can easily be popped back in place if it has only come off the groove. If the rod has popped out completely, the orthodontist will need to reattach the piece. Athletes who have this appliance typically have to wear special mouth guards to protect the appliance from being jostled in the mouth.