Functional Appliances in Utah

Functional appliances are a critical component of early orthodontic intervention for children with developing skeletal imbalances. At Utah Orthodontic Care, we use these appliances during Phase I Orthodontic Treatment to gently modify the position and growth of the jaws, setting the stage for a healthier, more balanced bite as children continue to develop.

These devices are especially effective in patients with discrepancies between the upper and lower jaws, such as Class II or Class III malocclusions. By influencing jaw growth during childhood and pre-adolescence, functional appliances reduce the need for future extractions or jaw surgery and can improve facial symmetry and oral function.

Functional appliances are either removable or fixed devices designed to stimulate proper jaw alignment by using the natural forces of muscle movement and growth. They work by positioning the lower jaw forward or backward, encouraging proper skeletal development over time.

Common indications for functional appliance therapy include:

• Underdeveloped lower jaw (retrognathia)
• Excessively prominent upper jaw
• Jaw size or positional discrepancies
• Imbalanced facial profile
• Early signs of overbite or underbite

Functional appliances can be used alone or in combination with other treatments like crossbite correction appliances, palatal expanders, or space maintainers.

At Utah Orthodontic Care, we customize treatment based on your child’s needs, age, and growth stage. Functional appliances we may recommend include:

1. Twin Block Appliance
   A removable device made of two parts, one for the upper jaw and one for the lower, designed to posture the lower jaw forward during wear. It’s one of the most effective options for treating significant overbites in growing children.
2. Herbst Appliance
   A fixed appliance that guides the lower jaw forward while anchored to the upper and lower molars. Ideal for patients who may have difficulty wearing removable devices consistently.
3. Bionator
   A single removable appliance used primarily in younger children with developing jaw discrepancies. It’s lightweight and typically worn for several hours a day, including during sleep.
4. Frankel Appliance
   This removable option focuses on muscle re-education and soft tissue training. It’s effective for modifying oral habits and improving posture and airway function in conjunction with skeletal corrections.

These appliances are typically used between ages 7 and 12, when jaw growth is most responsive to orthodontic influence.

The treatment process typically includes:

1. A detailed orthodontic evaluation, including jaw measurements and X-rays
2. Custom design and fabrication of the chosen appliance
3. Instruction for wear time, care, and maintenance
4. Routine check-ins to track growth and make adjustments
5. Transition to retention appliances or Phase II treatment if needed after jaw correction is complete

We tailor every functional appliance therapy to your child’s specific developmental timeline, using proactive strategies that minimize long-term orthodontic complexity.