Functional Appliances in Fareham, Hampshire

Functional appliances are used in orthodontics to guide jaw growth and improve how the teeth meet (bite function) while a child or teenager is still growing. At Angus Pringle Orthodontics, functional appliance treatment is provided in Fareham and Winchester as part of specialist-led orthodontic care, planned carefully around timing, growth and long-term stability.

Treatment is overseen by Angus Pringle, Specialist Orthodontist in Fareham. The aim is to create a healthier bite and reduce the risk of more complex problems later, where appropriate.

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The British Orthodontic Society has produced a helpful video explaining how functional appliances work:

What are functional appliances?

Functional appliances are orthodontic devices designed to improve bite relationships by influencing jaw position during growth. Unlike fixed braces, many functional appliances are removable. They work by encouraging the lower jaw to sit in a more favourable position, helping guide development while the jaws are still responsive to growth.

Because growth is the key factor, functional appliances are only used at certain stages — most commonly in children and teenagers, usually around the early to mid-teen years depending on individual development.

Who are functional appliances suitable for?

Functional appliances are most often recommended for specific bite patterns in growing patients, for example:

• Increased overjet — where the upper front teeth sit significantly ahead of the lower teeth.
• Class II bite relationships — where the lower jaw sits behind the upper jaw.

During an assessment, Angus looks at jaw growth, dental development and bite function to decide whether a functional appliance is appropriate — and, importantly, whether the timing is right.

Types of functional appliances

The right appliance depends on the bite, the stage of growth and how predictable treatment needs to be. Common options include:

• Twin Block — a removable appliance made of two parts that work together to guide jaw position.
• Fixed Class II correctors — appliances attached to the teeth that help guide jaw position without relying on removal.

Benefits of functional appliance treatment

When used for the right patient at the right time, functional appliances can:

• Improve bite function — helping the upper and lower teeth meet more effectively.
• Guide jaw growth — making use of natural development rather than working against it.
• Support facial balance — by improving jaw relationships during growth.
• Reduce complexity later — early correction can sometimes reduce the need for more complex treatment in the future.

What to expect with functional appliance treatment

1. Initial consultation. Growth, bite and dental development are assessed and explained clearly.
2. Appliance fitting. The appliance is fitted and adjusted for comfort and effectiveness.
3. Monitoring progress. Regular reviews check cooperation, fit and changes in the bite.
4. Transition to the next phase. Once jaw growth has been guided, further orthodontic treatment is usually needed to straighten teeth and finalise the bite.

Do patients need more treatment afterwards?

In most cases, yes. Functional appliances mainly guide jaw position and improve the bite relationship. A second phase is usually required to straighten the teeth and refine the final bite. This may include Damon braces, Spark Aligners or Invisalign, depending on the clinical needs and what suits the patient.

Functional appliance treatment is provided for growing patients across Hampshire — view the Hampshire areas we cover.

If your child or teenager is wearing a functional appliance, keeping both the appliance and the teeth clean is essential. The appliance should be removed for cleaning and gently brushed daily using a toothbrush and mild soap or non-abrasive toothpaste. Avoid hot water, which can distort the appliance. Further advice on appliance care ce be found here.

Teeth should be brushed thoroughly before reinserting the appliance, and the appliance should be worn exactly as advised to ensure treatment progresses as planned. Regular checks help ensure it continues to fit comfortably and work effectively.

Good daily care is essential during orthodontic treatment.
You can find practical advice on brushing, cleaning, diet and gum health in our guide to caring for your teeth and gums during orthodontic treatment

Keeping the result: retainers

Once orthodontic treatment is complete, retainers are essential to maintain the final result. Learn more about retainers.

Functional appliances are one of several orthodontic treatment options available. You can also learn more about seeing a specialist orthodontist in Fareham on the main service page.

Book a consultation

If you’re unsure whether functional appliance treatment is right for your child or teenager — or whether the timing is appropriate — a consultation with a specialist orthodontist can help guide the decision.

Book your consultation in Fareham

Book your consultation in Winchester

Functional appliances FAQs

Are functional appliances removable?

Some are removable (such as Twin Block appliances) and others are fixed. Angus will recommend the most appropriate option based on the bite, growth stage and the level of cooperation needed.

What age is best for functional appliance treatment?

They are most effective during periods of active growth. For many patients this is around the early to mid-teen years, but timing varies and is assessed individually.

How long does functional appliance treatment take?

Treatment length varies depending on growth and cooperation, but functional appliances are usually worn for several months before moving on to the next stage of orthodontic treatment.

Will more treatment be needed afterwards?

In most cases, yes. Functional appliances guide jaw position and improve the bite relationship, then fixed braces or aligners are used to straighten the teeth and finalise the bite.

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