HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What is the function of headgear in orthodontics?

1. To provide panoramic imaging

2. To control growth and tooth movement

3. To improve esthetics

4. To create space between teeth

The correct answer is: To control growth and tooth movement

Headgear in orthodontics serves primarily to control growth and tooth movement. This dental appliance is designed to apply gentle, consistent pressure to the teeth and jaw, which can help guide the development of the jaw and alignment of the teeth. Particularly in growing children, headgear can influence the growth direction of the maxilla (upper jaw) or mandible (lower jaw), promoting a more favorable bite and alignment. This control over growth is essential in treating various orthodontic issues, such as overbites or underbites, and can help prevent the need for more invasive treatments later on. The other functions listed do not encompass the primary purposes of headgear. While panoramic imaging is used for diagnostic purposes involving radiographic techniques, it does not pertain to the function of headgear. Improving esthetics is not a direct purpose of headgear; instead, it primarily works towards functional alignment. Lastly, while creating space between teeth may be part of overall orthodontic treatment, headgear is not specifically designed to create space as its main function focuses more on guiding tooth and jaw growth.