What does “Functional orthodontic appliance” mean?
A functional appliance uses jaw posture and oral function to encourage changes in tooth and bite relationships. These appliances are used, for example, to address front-to-back relationships during growth, and may be fixed or removable.
Select the appliance for growth and bite relationships
For example, an appliance addressing a Class II relationship may be designed to work with the lower jaw held forward. Not all Class II problems have the same cause or need the same appliance. Diagnostic records, growth, teeth and supporting tissues are assessed together.
Distinguish effects on teeth from effects on jaw growth
Changes in tooth inclination and position form an important part of functional appliance treatment. Growth response and long-term results vary and have limitations. A uniform change in facial shape or jaw length cannot be promised.
Connect wear and monitoring to the full treatment plan
For removable appliances, follow the prescribed wear instructions and tell the team if discomfort or breakage makes use difficult. Regular reviews assess response and cooperation. Fixed appliances may be needed afterwards or alongside this stage to align teeth, and retention may also be needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a functional appliance definitely make the lower jaw grow larger?
That cannot be guaranteed. Tooth movement and skeletal response are different, and growth and treatment response vary. Ask about expected changes and limitations in light of the examination findings.
Is orthodontic treatment finished when this appliance is finished?
Not necessarily. Addressing the front-to-back relationship may be followed by alignment, bite finishing and retention. Ask about the complete treatment plan.
Understanding functional appliance goals and later stages
Learn what the term means and how it relates to your dental condition.
- Sufficient understanding
Which dental and skeletal changes are intended?
Explanation and evidenceDiscuss tooth and jaw relationships and growth status, separating the changes expected from the appliance, limitations in response and alternatives.
British Orthodontic Society: Functional appliance roles, response and wear - A choice suited to your condition
How will wear and progress be monitored?
Explanation and evidenceConfirm individual wear and cleaning instructions, contact arrangements for discomfort or breakage, assessment of response and plans for later alignment and retention.
British Orthodontic Society: Functional appliance roles, response and wear
Further reading and references
Further reading
References
- British Orthodontic Society: Functional appliance roles, response and wearbos.org.uk (opens in a new tab)
- AAPD: Assessment and management of the developing dentition and occlusion (2024 revision)aapd.org (opens in a new tab)
- NHS: Orthodontic assessment, appliances and retentionnhs.uk (opens in a new tab)
