No-Headgear Approach
The Molen Experience
At Molen Orthodontics, we don’t believe in outdated, uncomfortable orthodontic headgear. Instead, we use progressive techniques that align your bite and enhance your natural facial structure — all while creating the full, curved, natural-looking Molen Smiles we’re known for.
Stunning Smiles, Without Orthodontic Headgear
Our no-headgear approach focuses on guiding the lower jaw forward, rather than pushing the upper jaw back. This promotes a healthier bite, preserves facial balance, and helps keep the airway open, reducing the risk of future breathing or sleep issues.
It’s all part of how we create the Molen Signature Smile: beautiful, functional, natural, and built to last.
The Herbst Appliance: A Smarter Solution
As part of our no-headgear approach, we use a small, discreet orthodontic appliance called the Herbst device. Unlike bulky headgear, the Herbst is positioned inside the mouth and barely noticeable unless your mouth is wide open.
The Herbst gently guides the lower jaw forward during key growth years, correcting overbites comfortably and effectively. While this appliance has been used for decades, our doctors have elevated the approach — customizing each Herbst in our in-house lab and fine-tuning its function to encourage true jaw growth without flaring the teeth.
The result? A beautifully aligned, long-lasting Molen smile, without the hassle or embarrassment of headgear.
Why We Don’t Use Ortho Headgear
Traditional dental headgear doesn’t just look and feel outdated; it can also lead to unwanted side effects. It works by pushing the upper jaw back, assuming the overbite is caused by the upper jaw. But in most cases, overbites are actually due to an underdeveloped lower jaw.
By forcing the upper jaw backward, headgear can restrict airway growth and increase the risk of breathing issues like sleep apnea. Braces headgear can also flatten the facial profile, creating a recessed look that affects overall facial harmony.
At Molen Orthodontics, we take a natural approach — guiding jaw development in the right direction for a healthier bite, balanced facial features, and long-term wellness.
