M. Gabrielle Thodas, D.D.S., M.S.D.
Practice Limited To Orthodontics
150 Arch Street, Redwood City, CA 94062 650-368-8348

HERBST APPLIANCE

The Herbst appliance is an amazing device that will help correct your bite. Remember we are using this because your lower jaw needs to be more forward. We know that it feels very strange and cumbersome right now, but you’ll be used to it in no time at all. Here are some special things to keep in mind about the Herbst appliance.

  • · The next week or so is probably going to be very frustrating for you. You’re going to feel like you can’t chew food very well and you might develop some sore areas on your cheeks. You will be amazed that you will get used to all these things and in a week or so the Herbst appliance will feel quite normal to you.
  • · Until you get used to eating with your Herbst appliance, eat lots of soft foods like applesauce, mashed potatoes, fruit smoothies, yogurt, soup and pasta. You’ll be able to chew better in about a week once you learn to chew differently.
  • · Because the Herbst appliance feels big against your cheeks, be sure to use plenty of wax. Don’t wait until you have a sore to start using the wax. Start using it right away. Also use the cotton rolls to keep your cheeks away from the appliance.
  • · Your teeth and jaw muscles will probably be sore for the next few days. Remember that this soreness will go away. In the meantime use Tylenol or whatever you would use for a headache to reduce the sensitivity of your teeth.
  • · Be careful with your Herbst appliance. Nothing is unbreakable. Remember not to open too wide or the rods will come out of the tubes. (We call this falling apart!) Try to get the rod back in the tube by opening wide again, but its best to try to keep this from happening at all.
  • · Be sure to brush all parts of your Herbst appliance as well as your teeth. Pack the travel toothbrush we gave you with you so you can use it whenever necessary.
  • · Remember to stay away from hard sticky foods that can break and pull apart your appliance.
  • We’ll be seeing you in a few weeks to see how you and the appliance are getting along. If you have any questions or problems before your next appointment, please call us at 368-8348.