Occasionally the upper and lower jaw may not align properly, with the lower jaw being deficient. In this case a functional appliance may be indicated.
There are two kinds of functional appliances:
- Removable functional appliances – these are like a twin block that consists of an upper and lower plate. When the teeth are brought together, the lower jaw is forced forward into a more ideal position. The muscles act on the teeth and jaws via the plates to correct the bite. Functional appliances are therefore perfect for young growing children about 10-12 years of age with a large over jet or horizontal overlap of the teeth.
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The Forsus Fatigue Resistant Device consists of two springs that are looped around the braces and when you bite down, the spring is compressed, applying a gentle forward force to the lower teeth and jaw. It promotes growth in adolescents, helping to eliminate excessive overbites, improve the fit of teeth, and possibly prevent the need for jaw surgery.
