THE HERBST
The Herbst is an appliance that consists of rods fixed in the upper and lower jaw.
The goal of this brace is to make the lower jaw grow. Sometimes this appliance is combined with a bracket brace. Unlike block braces, this also works for patients who are already full grown. Because of this special feature, the use of this brace can sometimes even prevent jaw surgery.
The rods are attached in the upper and lower jaw to rings that are placed on the molars. Despite the rods, it is still possible to open the mouth.
In the first few weeks, these braces can be quite bothersome. The lower jaw is constantly held in the correct, forward position and this means that the brace can cause muscle ache and discomfort in the jaw joint during the first few days. The teeth may also become sensitive. After a few weeks, this discomfort will diminish. The front teeth will make contact with each other without the molars coming together; chewing will be difficult during the first weeks and you should try to avoid a blow or a knock against the chin!