Problems with jaw pain and alignment? Fixed functional appliances are an option before the use of braces.
Functional appliances are used to correct a significant misalignment between the upper and lower jaws during development. The most common use for a functional appliance is to promote development of an under-developed lower jaw.
How does it work?
The appliance holds the lower jaw forward over a length of time until the teeth, jaws and joints have shifted and the desired jaw position is sustained.
Functional appliances depend on:
- How quickly the patient is developing
- How much the appliance is worn
Functional appliances are purposely designed for the jaw and they are usually the primary treatment before teeth are aligned with fixed appliances (braces).
For more information on Fixed functional appliances and the different types contact us at the practice.