A functional orthodontic appliance is a dental device specifically designed to correct and improve the alignment and functioning of the jaw and teeth. It is usually prescribed by orthodontists to treat various types of malocclusions (abnormalities in the positioning of the teeth or jaws).
Functional orthodontic appliances work by manipulating the growth and development of the jaws, promoting proper alignment and coordination between the upper and lower teeth. They are often used during the growth phase of a child's dental development, when the jaws are still developing and can be guided into the desired position.
These appliances typically consist of a combination of wires, springs, and other components, which are custom-made to fit the patient's mouth. They are removable and need to be worn for a specific period of time each day, usually several hours or overnight.
The main aim of a functional orthodontic appliance is to improve the functionality and aesthetics of the teeth and jaws. They can help correct problems such as crowded or misaligned teeth, overbites, underbites, and crossbites. By aligning the jaws correctly, functional orthodontic appliances can also have a positive impact on the patient's overall facial structure and appearance.
In summary, a functional orthodontic appliance is a specialized dental device used to correct the alignment and functioning of the jaw and teeth. It is prescribed by orthodontists, typically during a child's growth phase, and aims to improve both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the patient's smile.
