Functional Appliances Flashcards
1
Q
What is the definition of functional appliances?
A
Functional appliances utilise, eliminate or guide the forces of muscles of mastication, tooth eruption and growth to correct a malocclusion
2
Q
When are functional appliances most effective?
A
When the patient is growing
Treatment should coincide with pubertal growth spurt
3
Q
How do functional appliances work?
A
When the mandible is postured, pressures are created by stretching of the muscles and soft tissues. These pressures are then transmitted to the dental arches and skeletal structures
4
Q
What malocclusion do you usually treat with functional appliances?
A
Mild to moderate Class II skeletal problems
