Enhancing Smiles and Bite Function with Functional Appliances

We are committed to providing you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about your orthodontic treatment.

The British Orthodontic Society have an excellent video to explain about functional appliances

What Are Functional Appliances?
Functional appliances are orthodontic devices designed to correct misaligned bites and improve facial aesthetics. Unlike traditional braces, they are typically removable and work by influencing the growth and development of the jaws. These appliances play a crucial role in aligning the teeth and optimizing bite function. These types of braces are only used in patients who are actively growing eg teenagers.

Why Are Functional Appliances Used?
Functional appliances are employed to address various orthodontic issues, including:
– Overjet (often called an Overbite): For patients with an excessive overjet, functional appliances can help move the lower jaw forward, bringing the upper and lower teeth into proper alignment.

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Types of Functional Appliances
There are different types of functional appliances, including:
– Fixed Class II Corrector Appliance: A fixed appliance that promotes proper jaw alignment.
– Twin Block Appliance: Comprised of two separate parts that work together to align the jaws.

Benefits of Functional Appliances
Functional appliances offer several advantages, including:
– Improved Bite Function: They can enhance the way your teeth come together, making eating and speaking more comfortable.

– Enhanced Facial Aesthetics: Functional appliances can positively impact the appearance of your face by achieving better harmony between the upper and lower jaws.

– Minimized Reliance on Surgery: In some cases, functional appliances can prevent or reduce the need for surgical interventions to improve the jaw position.

How Are Functional Appliances Used?
Angus will assess your unique needs and create a treatment plan that may include the use of functional appliances. The duration of use and specific instructions will vary from patient to patient.

Maintaining Your Progress
To ensure the effectiveness of functional appliances, it’s essential to follow your orthodontist’s guidance on wear and care. Regular check-ups are also crucial to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments.

Do I need more treatment after Functional Appliances?

Yes most patients will repair another phase of treatment in order to straighten the teeth to allow the bite to fit as optimally as possible. There are a number of brace options to straighten your teeth including Damon braces, Spark Aligners or Invisalign. These options will be discussed with you to see which would be most appropriate for your needs.

Conclusion:
Functional appliances are powerful tools in the world of orthodontics, offering transformative results for patients seeking improved bite function and facial aesthetics. If you have any questions about functional appliances or would like to explore how they can benefit your orthodontic journey, please don’t hesitate to contact us at . Our team is here to help you achieve the smile and bite function you deserve.

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