Myofunctional Appliances are specialised tools used in orthodontics primarily to address underlying muscle and functional habits that contribute to misaligned teeth and jaw positions. These appliances do not move teeth; instead, they train the oral and facial muscles (such as the tongue, lips, and cheeks) to work correctly. This plays a vital role in guiding the proper growth and development of the jaws, especially in growing children. They are usually removable and are used to remedy problems such as mouth breathing, tongue thrusting, improper swallowing habits, and thumb-sucking (when untreated, they may cause complex orthodontic issues).
Key Features and Types of Appliances
| Appliance Type | Mechanism & Function | Key Advantage | Status (Fixed/Removable) |
| Twin Block | Two separate acrylic blocks (one for the upper jaw, one for the lower) interlock at a specific angle, forcing the lower jaw forward into a corrected position. | Highly effective for treating large overbites (Class II malocclusions) by stimulating lower jaw growth. | Removable (Worn full-time except for cleaning/sports) |
| Headgear | An external appliance (straps and wires) that attaches to the molar bands. It applies force to the teeth and jaw, usually to restrict the forward growth of the upper jaw. | Highly effective for correcting severe overjets or stabilising prominent molar positions. | Removable (Worn primarily at night and in the evening) |
| Removable Appliances (e.g., Plates, Expanders) | Custom-made plastic plates with wires and/or screws designed to expand the dental arches, correct a crossbite, or manage limited tooth movement. | Versatile for minor corrections, creating space, or correcting early crossbites. | Removable (Compliance is key) |
Function and Advantages of Myofunctional Therapy
- Jaw Development : This process helps them form proper spaces where the permanent teeth are going to be placed, achieved by pushing the jaws into their correct, balanced shapes.
- Habit Correction : They successfully correct bad habits of the mouth, such as mouth breathing and tongue thrust, which are significant causes of malocclusion (a bad bite).
- Treating Root Causes : Treatment can help stabilise and achieve long-lasting orthodontic outcomes by treating the functional cause of the problem, hence requiring fewer traditional braces in the future.
- Health and Aesthetics : With proper muscle functioning, overall health (i.e. breathing, sleep) and facial beauty can also be enhanced.
Why Choose Dr. Sujeet's Dental Care & Orthodontic Centre for Myofunctional Appliances?
- Pay attention to Early Intervention : Dr. Sujeet emphasises the detection and treatment of malocclusions at an early age with myofunctional techniques to make subsequent holistic treatment or prevent it.
- Complete Diagnosis : We conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your child's oral functions (breathing, swallowing, and tongue position) to determine the most effective myofunctional appliance and treatment plan.
- Integrated Approach : We combine the application of these appliances with hands-on exercises (myofunctional therapy) to ensure that the muscles are retrained successfully, allowing the jaw to grow into its best position and achieve a stable alignment.
Contact Us
If you suspect that your child has poor oral habits or is developing biting problems, early diagnosis is crucial. Book an appointment at Dr Sujeet Dental Care and Orthodontic Centre to consult with Dr Sujeet about Myofunctional Appliances.
Call Us : (+91) 8668974167
Email Us : clinic@drsujeetortho.com
Visit Us : Office No. 9, Building No. A1, Survey No. 570/571, Vishnu Vihar Society, Gangadham - Shatrunjay Rd, Bibwewadi, Pune, Maharashtra 411037