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Functional appliances are used to correct bite issues such as overbite and overjet (prominent teeth) by moving the lower jaw forward over time. These orthodontic appliances are suitable for teenagers and younger children whose jaws and teeth are still growing.
As functional appliances correct bites but cannot straighten teeth, they are often followed by other treatments such as braces to complete the full orthodontic correction.
Functional appliances are generally only available to children up to the age of about 14 as they are most effective during active stages of growth. These are used to harness the growth of the jaws and improve the way the upper and lower teeth meet. They work by positioning the lower jaw in a forward posture which stretches the muscles of the face and helps to correct protruding teeth. In some cases, these braces encourage favourable growth and help to improve the facial profile.
The most popular functional appliances used are called Twin Blocks. Although these braces can be quite chunky, if they are worn well, they can produce great results.
For a functional appliance to be effective, it must be worn all the time except when playing sports, eating and for cleaning.
They must be stored in a safe place e.g. a hard plastic box when not being worn.
Speech will be affected when wearing a functional appliance so it is best to practice speaking with the brace in place e.g. read out loud at home, and in this way the speech will return to normal within a few of days.
Typical treatments can last from 6-12 months. After this time, additional orthodontic treatment is often necessary to fine tune the position of individual teeth.
What to Expect
After your functional appliance is fitted, you will need to visit your Orthodontist regularly to have it checked and adjusted. We will also advise parents if their children are not wearing or cleaning their removable appliance as instructed.
You may feel some soreness for a few days after your appliance is fitted, but this will fade as your mouth adjusts. We recommend avoiding hard and sticky foods and acidic drinks to prevent your appliance being damaged.
It’s essential that you take good care of your functional appliance, as damage or loss will extend your overall treatment time. If you have a removable appliance, this should be replaced with a mouthguard if you take part in contact sports and other activities that present a risk of damage.
You also need to take good care of your teeth and keep up with your regular dental appointments throughout your orthodontic treatment. Brush three times daily and floss once a day, making sure to remove any food trapped in the appliance, so you will prevent tooth decay and dental procedures that could prolong your orthodontic treatment.