Herbst and Mara Appliances are in the family of fixed functional appliances. These devices integrate with braces in an effort to achieve correction of bite malrelationships characterized by weak or retrusive lower jaws.

Recent research indicates that the MARA can add length to the lower jaw and achieve a combination of other helpful changes all intended to correct more severe bite problems. These appliances are generally worn for 12-18 months during a 24-30 month orthodontic treatment and are considered a more aggressive form of therapy than braces alone, headgear, or the Forsus. The difference between the MARA and the Herbst is that the former does not interconnect the jaws while the latter does. We have had success with both approaches and comfort issues are about the same.