A functional appliance is used in certain types of orthodontic treatment. A functional appliance works by redirecting or guiding growth of the teeth and jaws into proper alignment.  Functional appliances can be fixed (glued in) or removable (can be taken in or out). Regardless of the type, the treatment outcome is still the same.

                           

                                  

                  

You will be instructed to wear your functional appliance a certain number of hours per day until you are use to it.  After you are comfortable with your appliance, it is important to wear it at least 14 to 24 hours a day, every day.   

       Remember when you take it out to eat, please put it back in its case. 

Do not put your appliance in a napkin, trust me, you will throw it away by mistake.

Consistent wear of your functional appliance is required for the best results.  Forgetting to wear your appliance will reduce the success of your orthodontic treatment and can make your treatment take a lot longer than necessary.

                                        Important things to remember

Difficulties in Speech and Swallowing are to be expected and are temporary.  This will improve after the adjustment period and continual wear.
Please Report any Sore Spots caused by the appliance to our office immediately.  The necessary adjustments can be made to make it more comfortable so that your treatment is not delayed.  Tender teeth are normal with your appliance during the first few days that it is worn.
Wear your Appliance as instructed.  The functional appliance will only help correct your bite if it is worn properly.
Remember to Brush Your Appliance regularly every time you brush your teeth. 
Take Good Care Of Your Functional Appliance, If you take it our of your mouth while eating, keep it in the case provided to protect it.  A functional appliance is very delicate, expensive, and can easily be broken.
Do not give up!  If you follow the instructions you will finish your treatment  sooner than you think.

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You will have the rest of your life to enjoy the benefits of a short term sacrifice.
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If you ever have any problems, please feel free to contact the our office by

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   To send E-mail to our office, Please click on the  "mail box icon".    

                                                          

you can page me directly from this site, by clicking on the "pager Icon". You must have my (P.I.N.) pager number before completing a page.  You will be given the pin number at the beginning of treatment.

                                                   

           

                                                  David E, Harmon, Jr., DDS, MSD, PA CopyrightŪ