If you are looking for a safe and effective solution to help promote the growth of one or both jawbones, a functional appliance may be right for you. Harmony Family Dental is pleased to offer this safe and effective solution to help you achieve optimal oral health.
Dental functional appliances are orthodontic devices designed to correct irregularities in the alignment of the teeth and jaw, particularly focusing on issues relating to how the upper and lower jaw fit together (malocclusion). These appliances work by utilizing the natural muscle action produced when eating, speaking and swallowing to apply gentle pressure to the teeth and jaw, promoting proper positioning and alignment over time. They are commonly used in orthodontic treatment for conditions such as overbites, underbites and crossbites. Examples of dental functional appliances include palate expanders, headgear, Herbst appliances and bite plates. These appliances can help improve chewing function, speech clarity and overall facial aesthetics by guiding proper jaw growth and development.
Functional appliances are mainly used in children to aid with crowding issues by helping the upper and lower jaws develop to normal size and shape. If treatment is successful, it may be unnecessary to extract permanent teeth. Ideally, functional appliances are used between the ages of 7 and 13. However, if the upper jaw is too narrow and is having a negative effect on speech or breathing, treatment may be started as early as 4 years old. Functional appliances may also be used in adults to help develop the arch to a more normal size and shape before undergoing orthodontic treatment.
Harmony Family Dental is here to help you attain optimal oral health and wellness. With functional appliances, irregularities may be corrected in the alignment of the teeth and jaw. If you have any questions about functional appliances, or you think you or your child may benefit from a functional appliance and you would like to set up a consultation with one of our dedicated team members, please call us at (403) 879-7897 and we will be happy to help.
Call Harmony Family Dental Care at (403) 879-7897 to set up a Functional Appliances Appointment today!
