Functional and Orthopaedic Appliances
A functional appliance is a brace designed to alter and modify the jaws’ growth and the teeth’ position.
What are Functional and Orthopaedic Appliances?
​Myofunctional therapy is a treatment that modifies the musculature surrounding the jaws and teeth to correct orthodontic problems. Dentofacial Orthopaedics is a segment of the orthodontic speciality concerned with the growth and development of the face and jaws.
Why Do People Get
Functional and Orthopaedic Appliances
Muscle Dysfunction Correction
Myofunctional appliances aim to correct abnormal oral muscle patterns and functions, including tongue thrusting, improper swallowing, and mouth breathing.
Benefits of Overall Health
Beyond orthodontic concerns, myofunctional therapy aims to improve overall oral and facial muscle function, which may have positive effects on breathing, speech, and facial development.
Treatment of Underlying Causes
Rather than solely addressing the positioning of teeth, myofunctional appliances focus on treating the underlying causes of malocclusions, which may include habits that affect oral muscle function.
Versatility
There are many types of functional devices; the most common one that is used in Ireland and the UK is the Twin-Block appliance. The Twin Block works by positioning the lower jaw forward and pulling the upper teeth back to reduce severe dental protrusion that cannot be reduced with braces alone.