A headgear is a removable appliance used in adolescents to correct the type of malocclusion where the upper teeth and jaw are too protrusive. It works by placing pressure against the upper molars, preventing the upper jaw from growing forward or in some instances actually moving it back. In order for a headgear to be effective, it must be worn consistently a minimum of 14 hours per day. Anything less is non-productive. The length of time that the headgear needs to be worn is determined by the severity of the malocclusion.

A headgear should never be worn while playing sports and should be removed while eating or brushing your teeth.