What element of headgear interacts with the upper molars?

The interaction of the headgear with the upper molars is facilitated by the inner bow. The inner bow is the component of the headgear that directly engages with the molars through bands that are placed on those teeth. Its primary function is to apply the necessary force to retract the molars and thus influence the position of the upper arch.

By anchoring onto the molars, the inner bow plays a critical role in orthodontic treatment, particularly when creating space or correcting the alignment of the dental arches. The design of the inner bow allows for the adjustment of forces, which can be tailored depending on the individual treatment needs. This also has implications for how the overall occlusal scheme is managed in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment.

The outer bow and elastic head strap provide support and assist in the distribution of force but do not directly interact with the molars. The retention band typically serves a different purpose, usually related to maintaining the position of teeth rather than actively applying forces to move them. Therefore, understanding the specific functions of each component elucidates why the inner bow is essential for the interaction with the upper molars.