Which orthodontic treatment can be performed using a functional appliance?

Functional appliances are designed to influence the position of the jaw and modify the relationship between the upper and lower teeth. Their primary function is to correct discrepancies in the bite by promoting favorable growth patterns in the jaw. This is particularly beneficial in growing patients, as the appliances can encourage the mandible to move forward or the maxilla to adopt a more optimal position relative to the lower jaw.

While the alignment of teeth, derotation, and reduction of a deep overbite may be goals in orthodontic treatments, functional appliances specifically target the jaw relationship. By modifying how the jaws fit together, these appliances can help manage issues related to overbites, underbites, and other skeletal discrepancies, thereby facilitating improved occlusion over time.