THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ORTHODONTICS AND FUNCTIONAL ORTHOPEDICS OF THE JAWS IN THE EARLY TREATMENT OF CHILDREN

Abstract

This study analyzes the correlation between orthodontics and functional jaw orthopedics in the early therapeutic treatment of children, highlighting the relevance of the integrated work of these specialties for craniofacial and functional development. The research, conducted through a narrative literature review, used databases such as Scielo, PubMed, and Google Scholar, covering publications from 2020 to 2025. The studies consulted indicate that early intervention, during the period of active development, takes advantage of the child’s bone and muscular plasticity, enabling more effective, less invasive treatments with long-lasting results. Preventive and interceptive orthodontics act in the correction and guidance of the dental arches, while functional orthopedics redirects bone and muscle growth, promoting facial harmony and the balance of oral functions. The combination of these approaches contributes to mandibular development, improved breathing, and the prevention of future complications, reducing the need for more complex treatments during adolescence. Appliances such as the Twin Block, the Bionator, and palatal expanders proved effective in correcting malocclusions and expanding the upper airways. It is concluded that early integration between orthodontics and functional jaw orthopedics is essential for balanced development and for promoting children’s health and quality of life.