MYOFUNCTIONAL APPLIANCES

Abstract

A functional appliance uses forces found in nature and directs them in a specific direction towards the teeth and alveolar bone. A class of intraoral gadgets known as myofunctional appliances rely on the forces inherent in the orofacial musculature to work. Generally speaking, they are passive and detachable. Rather than using active forces, they either guide, remove, or transmit the natural forces of the orofacial musculature to repair abnormal dentofacial structure growth and function. Through the medium of the appliance, they either reduce the aberrant forces of the orofacial musculature or convey the favourable muscle forces to the teeth and alveolar bone. In skeletal conditions classified as Class II div 1 and Class III, their main purpose is growth modulation. They are considered primarily for growth modification in skeletal Class II div 1 and Class III skeletal conditions. This article gives an overall view of myofunctional appliances.