In the past, Class II malocclusions or “overbites” were corrected with headgears. Compliance was poor due to the discomfort caused by these appliances and their unsightly appearance. Today, these cases can be corrected using a Herbst appliance. The Herbst appliance is much more comfortable for the patient,and the cheeks cover the appliance to make it almost unnoticeable.
A Herbst appliance is attached to the teeth; therefore, patient compliance is not absolutely necessary. The appliance positions the lower jaw in such a way as to maximize the growth potential of the jaw during the normal growth period of an adolescent patient. The appliance is typically worn for a 6–12 month period.
