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Orthodontic Headgear

  • Created in Orthodontics

Orthodontic headgear is used to correct a severely abnormal bite, correct dental overcrowding, and support normal jaw alignment and growth. It is typically recommended for younger children whose jaws are still developing.

Types of Orthodontic Headgear

Whereas braces are permanently fixed on the teeth, headgear can be removed and is worn partially outside the mouth. Depending on the patient’s needs, there are three types of orthodontic headgear your orthodontist can choose from:

  • Cervical Pull: This type of headgear is used to correct a malocclusion called an overjet, which appears as a protruding top jaw and front teeth. This device can also correct overbites, which is when the top and bottom teeth don’t meet properly. Cervical pull headgear uses straps that wrap around the neck and attach to the braces in the mouth.
  • High Pull: This type of headgear corrects an overjet or overbite. Straps are attached from the upper jaw to the top and back of the head. This device is also used in children with excessive jaw growth in the back of their mouth.
  • Reverse Pull: This type of headgear is used for underdeveloped upper jaws or underbites. When the lower teeth jut out past the upper teeth, it results in an underbite. This device uses rubber bands to attach to braces on the top teeth.

Using Orthodontic Headgear

It is vital to follow the orthodontist’s instructions when using headgear. Successful treatment can only be achieved if the device is worn anywhere from 12 to 14 hours a day, sometimes longer. A strict routine is important, for even small lapses will inhibit the rate of treatment. In total, headgear may be required anywhere from one to two years.

Orthodontists understand that wearing such a device in public may be embarrassing. That is why they recommend wearing the headgear promptly after school, through the rest of the evening, and overnight.

Discomfort is normal, especially when using headgear for the first time. At each visit, the orthodontist will adjust the headgear, and it could feel like there is more pressure being applied on the jaw. This sensation is very temporary. If discomfort does not lessen, over-the-counter pain medication may be taken to relieve pain. Additionally, cold foods such as popsicles may provide some relief.

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Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

Closed

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

Meet the Doctors
  • Dr.
    Jordan Masson

    I am originally from the east side of Michigan and grew up about 40 minutes north of Detroit.  I attended Western Michigan University and received a bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Science. Following WMU, I set my sites on Dental School and earned my DDS from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry in 2008.

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  • Dr.
    Andrew Knowlton

    I decided to become a dentist following a skiing accident in high school resulting in a broken jaw and a few missing teeth. My dentist made me feel great during a time that I thought my social life was over. I knew I wanted to give people the same feeling I experienced.

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History of Our Practice

History of Our Practice

Dr. Gary Cook started our practice in 1975. Dr. Cook grew up in Kent City and attended the University of Michigan Dental School. After 4 years of general practice, he sold his practice to Dr. Lee McFall in 1979, and went back to U of M to specialize in Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Cook later returned to Grand Rapids to practice in Pediatrics.

Dr. McFall graduated from Sparta High School in 1970, Albion College in 1974 and the University of Michigan in 1978. He practiced in Sheridan, Michigan for one year as an associate before buying Dr. Cook’s practice at 9161 Sparta Avenue. In the beginning, he practiced with one chair for himself and one for a hygienist. He had 3 employees: a hygienist, an assistant and a receptionist. In 1981 Dr. McFall bought his first computer system to be used to print and track insurance claims. The practice grew and a second chair for the doctor’s patients was added. In 1985 a second computer system was installed and was still used mainly for printing insurance forms at the reception desk. The practice continued to grow and a 4th chair was added for a second hygienist. By this time there were 10 employees.

In 1995 a networked computer system was installed with a dedicated file server, and with software that could be used in the treatment rooms as well as the front desk. This computer and software system was the beginning of a long-range technology plan to completely change how the practice would deliver dental care. We began using this system at the front desk to send insurance claims electronically. At that time we were one of the first offices in West Michigan using electronic submission of insurance claims for our patients. In January of 1997 a complete remodeling of the office was done and an intraoral camera system was installed to use for patient education and for photos to send to insurance companies for our patients.

In July of 1999 Dr. Andrew Knowlton joined our practice. Dr. Knowlton graduated from Belding High School in 1991, Andrews University in 1995, and University of Michigan Dental School in 1999. In the year 2000 we placed computers in the treatment rooms to more accurately and efficiently record treatment. We were also able to schedule appointments in the treatment rooms. This shortened the amount of time it took for our patients to “check out” after treatment. At this time we had 14 employees.

The practice grew steadily between 2000 & 2004 and in October of 2004, Dr. Knowlton & Dr. McFall became equal partners. The name of the practice changed from C. Lee McFall DDS PC to Knowlton & McFall Dentistry, PLLC. In 2005 we added a 5th treatment room but by that time we actually needed even more space than the rented building had room for. In 2006 we purchased land at 9654 Sparta Ave. and began plans for a new office. The office was completed in late 2008 and is one of the most technologically advanced general practices in West Michigan. Digital records, digital x-rays, and digital photographs are all utilized in the new facility. We believe it is a beautiful and comfortable place for patients to come for their oral health care.

In 2013, Dr. McFall was searching for a dentist to replace him as he was nearing retirement.   Dr. Jordan Masson fit the bill.  Dr. Masson graduated from Lake Orion High School in 2000, Western Michigan University in 2004, and the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry in 2008.  He was first hired as an associate dentist, but in July of 2014, Dr. Masson purchased Dr. McFall’s portion of the practice and officially became equal partners with Dr. Knowlton.  The name of the practice was changed from Knowlton & McFall Dentistry, PLLC to Knowlton & Masson Dentistry, PLLC.

Though our practice has evolved over the years, we remain committed to providing the best, individualized, and comprehensive care that we can for our valued patients.