Would functional orthodontics be able to move a developing teenager's jaw forward?

Not necessarily: The ability to "grow a jaw" or have the lower jaw "moved forward" doesn't happen via functional appliances. Dr. Lyle johnston's extensive research has shown that funtional appliances do similar orthodpedic things that extra oral cerical traction neck gear does...Places and orthopedic force on the upper jaw, causing its forward growth to be limited while allowing the lower jaw to grow normally.

No: After studying over 10, 000 cases dr. Lysle johnston of the u. Of michigan showed that functional appliances gain only 1mm of additional forward growth of the jaw. Headgears and extraction treatment are much more effective and require less cooperation. This was put to rest decades ago. I'm surprised there are still people claiming they move the jaw.

Yes if...: The important aspect is to find the best functional position for the jaw. If this is a forward position from the habitual bite then the treatments can be rendered to help maintain this stable position by bringing the teeth together at this position. Be sure there are not TMJ problems as a part of the examination and if there are none, then useorthopedic positioning and orthodontics.

Temporarily: A functional appliance positions the lower jaw forward, in doing so by muscular forces restrains the upper jaw, and angles the lower front teeth forward: it does not grow the lower jaw, a common misconception. They are used (often by non specialists) and do work to some extent, but not the way most people think. Genetic predisposition for lower jaw growth will not be changed.

Yes and No: Functional orthodontics to correct a smaller lower jaw or excessive overbite/overjet typically pushes back on the upper jaw and forward on the lower jaw. This discourages forward development of the upper jaw and lets the lower jaw catch up during the growth spurt. Without active growth, this wouldn't work as well. Studies show that some correction is from tooth movement and most from growth.

Probably: Functional orthodontics is usually effective in growing children, the younger, the more effective.

No such thing: Orthodontists can use functional appliances to correct a bite, but be very wary of a general dentist saying they practice "functional orthodontics". The appliances are used in conjunction with other orthodontic technics.

Sorry: To little, too late. Functional appliances show some effect of restraining upper jaw growth as lower jaw grows forward, with little or no acceleration, if applied early. By the time a child has reached puberty and beyond, functional appliances are not very useful. Please talk this over with a qualified orthodontic specialist.

Unlikely: Unlikely in any given case.. This type of treatment usally proposed by non-orthodontist proposing treatment. Make sure you have your child evaluated and treated by a board certified orthodontist.