Functional braces, or functional appliance braces, are orthodontic devices. They treat malposition of both teeth and jaws during an adolescent growth phase. Functional braces prove most effective in solving some occlusions and jaw anomalies. “Functional” refers to guiding the jaw and teeth into proper alignment through natural movements and not forcing the teeth into place. That is what makes functional braces different from traditional braces.
In this article, we shall outline various available functional braces, their effectiveness. The cost involved, and the pros and cons of removable functional braces.
What Are Functional Braces?
Functional orthodontic braces are orthodontic appliances used to treat misplaced jaws. Where the patient’s bite can be enhanced, most notably during stages of growth in younger patients.
The main difference between functional and traditional braces is that while traditional braces stay fixed on the teeth. Functional orthodontic braces are generally removable to guide the jaw and its surrounding muscles towards proper growth. This promotes proper growth in the jaw and aids in proper tooth alignment without requiring undue extraction or surgery in most cases.
Functional braces work in that they apply gentle pressure on the jaw or teeth, changing the mode of functioning of jaw muscles and promoting natural alignment as time passes. Because they are usually targeted at children and adolescents. Whose jaws are still developing, functional braces are highly effective if implemented early in Orthodontic Treatment.
Types of Functional Braces
There are various functional braces, all of which perform their specific function per the type of dental condition the patient may be suffering from. There are some categories, among which some of the common categories are:
1. Fixed Functional Braces
Fixed functional braces are similar to traditional braces but serve the purpose of fixing jaw issues rather than just the alignment of the teeth. They must be stuck onto the teeth and cannot be removed by the patient. This kind of appliance is generally used for treatment where fixed pressure needs to be applied regularly to the teeth and the jaw.
Some of the fixed functional appliances include Herbst appliances and Forsus appliances. Generally, these are used to treat conditions such as overbite. They are largely used in conjunction with orthodontic braces.
2. Removable Functional Braces
Removable functional braces are designed to be removed. A patient removes them, usually for meals or hygiene, and puts them back on afterwards. They often consist of acrylic materials and wires and can be made to cover teeth and reposition the jaw when worn.
The most common types of removable functional braces are:
- Twin Block Appliance: Two parts that work together to set the top and bottom jaws in the proper alignment.
- Bionator: A simple removable appliance used to promote proper jaw positioning and eruption of the teeth.
- Frankel Appliance: An advanced appliance not only adjusts jaws but also improves muscle function
3. Hybrid Functional Braces
Hybrid appliances combine aspects of both fixed and removable braces. The appliance may contain fixed elements that provide consistent pressure throughout any position, with some removable parts for easier access to clean them and more comfort during times of eating. A hybrid functional appliance is usually used when an accurate balance of the required pressure and flexibility is needed to correct complicated problems of the jaws.
Costs of Functional Braces
The cost of functional braces depends on several reasons. The complexity of treatment, the type of appliance used, and the region where one is seeking treatment determine this. The average functional braces cost ranges between $1,500 and $5,000.
1. Type of Appliance
- Fixed Functional Braces: This is more costly as the treatment would be intricate and require more frequent orthodontic visits for adjustment.
- Removable Functional Braces: It is less expensive because not many adjustments and appointments would be necessary.
2. Treatment Time
The duration of the treatment also varies with the cost. Functional braces have to be worn for at least 6 months and at a maximum of 18 months, depending on the patient’s condition. The more extended time is taken, the more orthodontic follow-up sessions become more frequent, increasing the expenses.
3. Orthodontist’s Expertise
The costs of functional braces generally vary with the level of experience of the orthodontist. Orthodontists experienced in laying functional braces or those with specialized knowledge about jaw discrepancies may charge more.
Advantages of Functional Braces
Functional braces have a wide range of benefits for children at their peak development and young adults. The most significant advantages include:
- Non-surgical correction: Functional orthodontic appliances correct the jaw’s position without surgery.
- Improves facial appearance: Functional orthodontic appliances correct overbite and underbites, thus improving the face’s and profile’s general look.
- Corrects bite problems early: When administered early, functional orthodontic appliances might prevent complicated treatments later in life, such as extractions or surgical intervention.
- Improved function: Many patients love increased mastication, better speech, and overall jaw function after functional brace treatment.
Disadvantages of Functional Braces
Although functional braces often work in most treatments, there are still a few downsides to consider:
- Compliance is critical: In removable functional braces, patient compliance is essential. If the appliance is not worn for the prescribed hours each day, the treatment may not be optimal or drag on.
- Discomfort: Some patients find functional braces uncomfortable, especially at the initial stages. It takes some time to get accustomed to the feeling caused by the appliance.
- Long treatment period: Functional braces can treat most conditions, but they take longer than orthodontic appliances, depending on the condition caused by the patient’s dental condition.
Conclusion
Functional fixed and removable braces are an excellent appliance choice in treating jaw misalignments and bite issues, and they are very useful for young, growing patients. In fact, they are beneficial for solving dental problems and 1A Orthodontics can offer an appreciable improvement in the overall structure and appearance of the face.
Even though costs vary for different appliances and with the treatment time set, functional braces generally offer a more natural, less traumatic approach to orthodontic care. An orthodontic specialist’s opinion is necessary to know the best available treatment tailored to your needs, whether one sees fixed or removable functional braces.
