Removable Functional Appliances

Abstract

Functional dentofacial orthopedics is a field of orthodontics which provides treatment that uses forces within the masticatory system to affect the underlying musculoskeletal system. This aims for early treatment of indicated cases of malocclusion. Removable functional appliances fall under this field. By definition, these are appliances that apply, eliminate or guide forces that are coming from occlusion or muscles, in order to affect the growing individual’s jaw relationship. They attempt to provide an interceptive therapy to either a present or developing malocclusion. The mechanism of action of these appliances utilizes mandibular advancement and/or myofunctional therapy, resulting in force application for condylar growth stimulation and/or force elimination to remove any restrictive forces, such as any muscular dysfunctions, and allow normal growth.