What does “Bionator” mean?
A bionator is a removable functional orthodontic appliance made with acrylic and wire components and worn in the mouth. It is used in plans addressing jaw posture and tooth and bite relationships during growth, and is made and adjusted to suit the diagnosis and goals.
Use a design and jaw position suited to the diagnosis
The acrylic body and wire components sit around the teeth and within the mouth, with a design based on jaw relationships and treatment goals. Do not use someone else’s appliance or adjust the wires yourself. Designs and purposes can vary within the functional appliance family.
Assess dental and bite changes over time
Changes in front-tooth inclination and bite relationships should be considered separately from growth and skeletal response. A long-term study of the teeth after bionator treatment has been published, but it has limitations: a small sample, analysis of past records and no untreated control group. Average study findings cannot guarantee an individual’s jaw growth or stability.
Confirm wear and later treatment within one plan
Follow individual wear and cleaning instructions. Tell the team if poor fit, breakage or persistent pain makes use difficult. Reviews assess the response and appliance condition. Fixed appliances may be used afterwards or alongside this stage to finish alignment, followed by retention if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a bionator make every child’s lower jaw grow?
That cannot be guaranteed. Growth and treatment responses vary, and tooth movement must be distinguished from skeletal change. Ask about the goals and limits identified through assessment.
Will a bionator mean I will not need brackets later?
It depends on the individual plan. Detailed alignment and bite treatment may still be needed after addressing front-to-back relationships. Ask about the complete course and alternatives when choosing the appliance.
Understanding bionator goals and wear
Learn what the term means and how it relates to your dental condition.
- Sufficient understanding
What changes are intended for the current tooth and jaw relationships?
Explanation and evidenceDiscuss growth status and dental versus skeletal factors, the appliance’s goals, limitations in response and other options.
British Orthodontic Society: Functional appliance action, response and wear - A choice suited to your condition
How will wear be checked, and what determines the next stage?
Explanation and evidenceConfirm use and cleaning instructions, contact arrangements for discomfort or breakage, response assessment and plans for later alignment and retention.
British Orthodontic Society: Functional appliance action, response and wear
Further reading and references
Further reading
References
- Retrospective study of long-term dental changes after bionator treatment (2020)pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov (opens in a new tab)
- British Orthodontic Society: Functional appliance action, response and wearbos.org.uk (opens in a new tab)
- AAPD: Developing dentition and space management (2024 revision)aapd.org (opens in a new tab)
