Herbst appliances are named after Dr. Walter Herbst, who first developed them in the 1950s as a way to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). These appliances can be incredibly effective in reducing the symptoms of GERD, but they are also permanent, so potential patients should fully understand what they entail before undergoing treatment. This article will describe what Herbst appliance are and how they work, as well as how their effectiveness can be evaluated with tests like pH testing, endoscopy and x-rays.
What To Expect With A Herbst Device?
Stomach banding surgery, also known as Herbst device, uses surgical staples to physically create a small stomach pouch and reduce its capacity. Before surgery, patients receive X-rays to make sure their stomach tissue isn’t too thick for banding. The surgeon then uses an incision in your upper abdomen to staple two parts of your stomach together. This limits how much food you can eat at one time and how quickly food moves through your digestive tract. Because you feel full faster, many people will naturally eat less over time. Although it’s not painless—you’ll experience some discomfort while eating and in recovery—the whole process is relatively quick (about 30 minutes) and generally safe if done by an experienced surgeon.
Why Use The Herbst Appliance?
You may be wondering, Why use The Herbst Device? or, What can it do for me? As orthodontic specialists, we take great pride in being able to provide you with solutions to some of your most challenging orthodontic needs. One such need for many patients is that of overjet reduction. The Herbst Appliance will allow you to safely reduce your overbite (or overjet) in just 3-6 months and without risking damaging bone structure. This treatment option allows you to maintain bone integrity while still obtaining a beautiful smile. Orthodontic practice notes that using The Herbst Device also helps open up your airway, making breathing easier.
Do I Have To Clean The Herbst Appliance?
As your heartburn symptoms lessen, you’ll be able to cut back on some of your medication and do away with extra pillows. After about three weeks, you should feel relatively pain-free and can stop using your heating pad for at least four hours during each night. At that point, you can remove your Herbst Appliance. Before doing so, talk to your doctor to make sure it’s okay to remove it and don’t get ahead of yourself! Too much activity too soon can lead to bleeding and other complications, so take it slow if you need to.
Does Getting A Herbst Appliance Hurt?
While it’s certainly not fun to have something inserted into your mouth, those who are getting Herbst appliances probably aren’t looking forward to it, either. However, when you consider how painful undergoing dental surgery would be. Dental assistants will numb your mouth with an injection so you won’t feel anything during your appointment. That being said, some people do report feeling mild discomfort when their appliance is first put in place.
