The Herbst appliance is delivered in two stages. First the metal crowns are cemented, which require a few days for the patient to adjust to their new bite. Wax may be needed initially for comfort. The second stage, usually several weeks later, is the delivery of the arms, which attach the upper crowns to the lower crowns by rod-like arms.

The purpose of this appliance is to maintain a forward position of the lower jaw, thereby improving the bite and the profile. The Herbst appliance requires care in avoiding hard foods such as ice and candies. Hard or sticky food may damage or dislodge the appliance.

It is important that an extra effort be made to clean the appliance where it is close to the gums. This will help prevent the gums around the appliance from getting inflamed or swollen.

You should not drink any carbonated beverage because the carbonation can dissolve the cement used to affix crowns to the teeth. We also ask that you NOT eat anything which fits into the category of "hard, sticky or chewy." Below we have listed some foods which we would like for you to avoid. This list does not include all foods to avoid. It is only a guideline to help you become more selective about the foods to be eaten to prevent damage to the appliance. In addition to these foods, pens, pencils, ice or anything hard which you put into your mouth can also damage the appliance or your teeth.

There are still many things that you CAN eat with your orthodontic appliance. For example, fruit, raisins, Hershey Kisses, Nestle Crunch bars, Three Musketeers, M&M's (not peanut or almond), Reese's Peanut Butter Cups or Pieces, Peppermint Patties, Cotton Candy, Ice Cream, Frozen Yogurt, Brownies (without nuts), etc.

It is a good idea to brush your teeth soon after eating a meal or snack to remove the food from around your teeth, gums and appliance. If you are unable to brush, then rinse well with water. Remember that one excellent toothbrushing is also required daily, preferable prior to bedtime.