Functional Orthodontics of the Jaws
More than just a beautiful smile, a healthy smile.
Functional maxillary orthodontics addresses the root cause of orthodontic problems, promoting the harmonious development of the face and jaws in children and adolescents. Early treatment makes all the difference in oral health and self-esteem in the future.
What is it?
Functional orthodontics of the jaws
Its aim is to diagnose, prevent, control, and treat growth and development problems affecting the dental arches and their bony bases.
The patient's age and adaptive capacity are decisive factors in correcting malocclusions and resulting craniofacial disharmonies.
At a young age, treatment reduces the need for future and invasive therapies.
With removable functional medical devices, it corrects discrepancies between the jaws caused by poor tongue position, atypical swallowing, mouth breathing, among others, and stimulates development with minimal asymmetries and future corrections.
When necessary
- When alterations in craniofacial and respiratory growth are observed in children and adolescents.
- To prevent and/or correct abnormal growth of the jaws.
- To correct occlusal problems that affect tooth alignment.
- To treat harmful oral habits such as thumb sucking, tongue malposition, mouth breathing, and atypical swallowing.
- For early aesthetic improvement, during the growth phase.
Benefits:
- It prevents invasive treatments such as more complex periorthology and/or surgeries.
- It promotes the healthy growth of the jaws and the relationship between them.
- It improves breathing, phonetics, chewing, and swallowing, consequently promoting greater tissue oxygenation, communication, and digestion.
- Corrects bite problems and harmful oral habits.
- Avoid insecurities during adolescence.
Treatment
Treatment is performed with customized functional orthopedic devices that act passively or actively in the development of the jaws.
Detailed clinical assessment
Through the study of oral growth and habits.
Individualized planning
With follow-up by an orthodontist and, if necessary, by other professionals (e.g., speech therapists or otolaryngologists).
Use of devices
Removable or fixed functional appliances, adjusted regularly according to the progression of growth.
Continuous monitoring phase
Focusing on correcting habits and developing a harmonious face.
Early intervention
Early intervention allows for action while the bone structure is still developing, achieving results that would be more difficult or invasive in adulthood.
Frequently Asked Questions
From what age can functional treatment be started?
Generally between the ages of 6 and 12, depending on the child's developmental stage. The earlier the assessment, the better the results.
Are the functional appliances removable or fixed?
They can be removable or fixed, depending on the type of correction needed and the child's profile.
Does this treatment replace the need for fixed braces in the future?
In many cases, it reduces or even eliminates the need for fixed orthodontics. In others, it paves the way for faster and more effective treatment.
Is it a visible treatment?
Some devices are discreet, but the focus at this stage is more functional than aesthetic. The great advantage lies in the preventive and long-lasting results.