Functional Appliances

What is a functional appliance?
A functional appliance is a removable brace. It comprises two parts which fit on the upper and lower teeth. Both appliances are worn at the same time. The aim of a functional appliance is to reposition the teeth and jaw and is usually used when someone has prominent upper teeth.

How often do I need to wear the functional appliance?
Functional appliances are normally worn all day and night and removed only for cleaning, sports and when playing wind instruments. Worn well, a dramatic change in the position of the teeth is frequently experienced within a few months. We may then suggest your brace is worn at night only.

Dr Richard Skeggs BDS, MFDS RCS, MClinDent, MOrth RCS Specialist in Orthondontics
at the Nottingham Orthodontic Centre