a woman smiling with red reverse pull headgear braces on her face

Reverse Pull Headgear Braces in Austin, TX

By Limestone Hills Orthodontics

updated on February 11, 2025
a woman smiling with red reverse pull headgear braces on her face

Reverse Pull Headgear Braces in Austin, TX – Everything You Need to Know

Reverse pull headgear braces are a highly effective way to fix underbites and help align the upper and lower jaws. They work by gently moving the upper jaw forward, letting it align properly with the lower jaw. For families in Austin, TX, this treatment can make a big difference in improving smiles and boosting confidence. Let’s break down how reverse pull headgear braces can benefit your child or teen!

What Are Reverse Pull Headgear Braces?

Reverse pull headgear braces are a special orthodontic tool used to fix underbites—a type of malocclusion (or jaw misalignment) where the bottom teeth stick out too far in front of the top teeth. This can make it harder to chew properly, speak clearly, or even feel confident about your smile.

These braces are most effective for children and teens whose upper jaw hasn’t grown as much as their lower jaw. By gently pulling the top jaw forward, reverse pull headgear improves how the upper and lower jaws align. It not only helps with creating a balanced jaw position but also improves facial symmetry and overall dental health.

How Do Reverse Pull Headgear Braces Work?

Reverse pull headgear works by using steady, light force to guide the upper jaw into the correct position. Here’s how it works step by step:

  • Face Frame and Attachments: The headgear includes a comfortable face mask worn outside the mouth. It attaches to braces or a dental appliance inside the mouth.
  • Steady, Gentle Pressure: By wearing the device, the upper jaw is gently pulled forward over time, helping align it with the lower jaw.
  • Consistent Use: For the treatment to work effectively, patients need to wear the headgear for several hours daily. Most kids wear it in the evening or during sleep, so it doesn’t interfere with school or daily activities.

Every headgear is customized for each patient to ensure it fits comfortably and delivers the right amount of pressure for effective results.

Different Types of Orthodontic Headgear

Reverse pull headgear isn’t the only type of device used to address jaw and tooth alignment issues. Here are two other common types:

Cervical Pull Headgear

  • This type uses a soft strap that goes around the back of the neck and connects to braces.
  • It applies consistent force to correct issues with the upper teeth and jaw, usually to fix overbites (where the top teeth extend too far over the lower teeth).

High-Pull Headgear

  • High-pull headgear fits over the back of the head with straps that connect to braces.
  • It’s often used to guide the upper jaw back or upward if it is growing too much.

Your orthodontist will recommend the right type of headgear based on your unique needs.

Benefits of Reverse Pull Headgear Braces

Reverse pull headgear offers several advantages for children dealing with jaw alignment issues:

  • Fixes Underbites
    Reverse pull headgear is specifically designed to address underbites by guiding the upper jaw to align properly with the lower jaw. This corrects bite issues and improves how the top and bottom teeth meet.
  • Encourages Proper Jaw Growth
    The braces encourage the upper jaw to grow forward in a healthy way, ensuring it keeps up with the lower jaw and reducing future problems.
  • Improves Chewing and Speaking
    When the jaws align properly, biting, chewing, and even speaking become much easier and more comfortable.
  • Boosts Facial Balance
    Correcting an underbite helps restore balance to the face, making it look more symmetrical and natural.
  • Prevents Dental Issues
    Early treatment avoids long-term dental problems such as wearing down teeth unevenly, gum issues, or jaw joint pain (TMJ).
  • Non-Invasive Solution
    Unlike surgery, reverse pull headgear is a non-invasive way to correct jaw alignment and is often the best choice for growing children.

Why Choose Reverse Pull Headgear Braces in Austin, TX?

In Austin, reverse pull headgear braces are a trusted solution for underbites. Children benefit the most from this treatment because their jaws are still developing and easier to guide into the correct position. Early intervention with these braces can help your child avoid future complications, saving time and money in the long run.

When your child’s jaws align correctly, it leads to long-term oral health and boosts their confidence in their smile. It’s truly an investment in their future!

Why Choose Our Orthodontic Practice in Austin, TX?

At our orthodontic office in Austin, we are committed to providing top-quality, personalized care for each patient. Here are just a few reasons families trust us with their orthodontic care:

Expert Orthodontic Care

Our orthodontists have years of experience treating children and teens with jaw alignment issues. We specialize in effective treatments like reverse pull headgear that deliver great results.

Personalized Treatment Plans

We know every patient is unique, and so are their smiles. That’s why we create customized plans that meet your child’s specific needs.

Support Every Step of the Way

From the first consultation to the final results, our friendly team will be with you every step of the way, answering questions, making adjustments, and offering advice.

Variety of Treatment Options

In addition to reverse pull headgear, we offer other choices like Invisalign and traditional braces, ensuring we have the best treatment for every patient.

How Much Do Reverse Pull Headgear Braces Cost?

The cost of reverse pull headgear braces is typically between $1,500 and $3,000, though this can vary depending on:

  • The severity of the underbite
  • How long the treatment lasts
  • Whether your insurance covers part of the cost
a woman smiling with red reverse pull headgear braces on her face

Contact Us Today!

Come see us in Austin, TX, for a free consultation! During your visit, we’ll assess your teeth, go over your treatment options, and discuss how we can help you achieve a straight, confident smile. Scheduling is simple—give us a call or visit our website to book a time that works for you! Our friendly team is ready to answer your questions and guide you every step of the way.

About the Authors

Dr. Rodrigo Viecilli – Orthodontist in Austin, TX

Dr. Sam Elkenawy – Orthodontist in Houston and Richmond, TX

FAQ

Who Should Use Reverse Pull Headgear Braces?

These braces are ideal for children and teens with underbites caused by a slow-growing upper jaw. Starting the treatment early, while their jaws are still developing, ensures the best results.

How Long Is the Treatment?

Most patients wear the headgear for about 9 to 12 months, depending on the severity of their underbite and how consistently they use the device.

Does It Hurt or Feel Uncomfortable?

It can feel a little strange or awkward at first, but most kids adjust to wearing headgear quickly. The materials are lightweight, and straps are adjustable for extra comfort.

Can Adults Use These Braces?

While reverse pull headgear is most effective for children and teens, some adults with underbites may benefit. Consult your orthodontist to see if this treatment is right for you.

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