What Is Functional Orthodontics?
Functional orthodontics goes beyond straightening teeth—it focuses on how the jaws develop, how the airway functions, and how the muscles of the face and tongue work together. This approach is especially effective for children and teens but can also benefit adults.
By guiding natural growth and correcting underlying causes early, we can:
- Improve facial symmetry
- Support proper breathing and sleep
- Reduce the need for future extractions or jaw surgery
How Guided Growth Works
Guided growth uses custom appliances and therapies to support proper development of the jaws and airway. Instead of just aligning teeth, we work with the body’s natural processes to expand the palate, improve tongue posture, and encourage nasal breathing.
This process can begin as early as age 3 or 4, but adults can also benefit from airway-focused treatment that improves function, not just appearance.
Key Therapies we use
Frenectomy & Lip/Tongue Tie Release
Tight or restricted tissue (called a frenum) under the tongue or lip can:
- Restrict jaw development
- Lead to mouth breathing
- Cause speech or feeding difficulties
We use gentle laser technology to perform precise, comfortable frenectomies that release these restrictions and allow for proper function and growth.
Vivos® Guided Growth Appliances
Vivos is a cutting-edge system designed to:
- Naturally widen the upper jaw
- Create space for the tongue
- Improve breathing during sleep
Vivos appliances are custom-made and used primarily at night. They’re ideal for children with developmental concerns or adults with sleep-disordered breathing.
Nuvola® Clear Aligners (All Ages)
For patients of any age looking to improve the alignment of their teeth without compromising function, Nuvola® aligners offer:
- Clear, comfortable design
- Custom plans tailored to jaw development
- Safe for kids, teens, and adults
Nuvola aligners are not just cosmetic—they can be part of a broader functional orthodontic plan when combined with airway or myofunctional therapies.
Why Choose Functional Orthodontics?
Traditional orthodontics focuses on teeth. Functional orthodontics focuses on the whole person—breathing, sleep, muscle function, and facial development.
Whether you’re looking to start your child on the right developmental path or you’re an adult ready to address chronic issues like snoring, jaw pain, or crowding, we’re here to help.
Schedule a consultation to learn more about our growth-guided solutions.