Could you please describe functional orthodontics and should i ask my orthodontist about it?

Functional ortho: Functional orthodontics is the use of functional appliances as part of your treatment. These cause expansion and/or repositioning of the jaws to eliminate the need for extractions and create a good functional bite.

Fixed appliances: I would stay away from any orthodontist or provider that says that's all they do. Trust your orthodontist and discuss with them. If its for yourself, functional orthodontics is not an option as it is only for growing kids.

Ask away, but...: Functional orthodontics works best in growing children, by eliminating harmful habitsand guiding growth. It works by using a patients own muscles to align teeth and jaws.

For children/tweens: Treatment geared toward improving jaw relationships utilizing musculature to enhance lower and retard upper jaw growth. Only moderately successful according to many studies. Note: works less well in teens, & not at all for adults. By all means, discuss this with your orthodontic specialist who is a growth and development expert. Shy away from gp's who took a weekend course @ a holiday inn.