Introduction: The growth and development of the orofacial region is affected by genetic factors and orofacial functions. Orofacial functional irregularities can be grouped into active and passive irregularities. The development of irregular bite and facial skeleton is mostly dictated by passive irregularities: open mouth and tounge position. During the mixed dentition period the occurrence of malocclusions is very common, causing patients difficulties with speech, eating, and self-image. Early or even preventive orthodontic treatment aims to correct existing or developing dentoalveolar, skeletal, and muscular imbalances in order to create and maintain space in the dental arch, thus providing a favorable environment for the growth of permanent teeth. To correct dental and jaw irregularities, various orthodontic appliances are planned according to the patient's developmental stage and the severity of the malocclusion. In expanding of the lower jaw, we are limited by its skeletal structure. Space gain is reflected only in tooth inclination, unlike in the upper jaw, where appliances can affect not only the teeth but also the skeletal structure. Purpose: The purpose of this thesis is to present dental and jaw irregularities, orofacial functional irregularities and introduce laboratory-made appliances for correcting irregularities in the lower jaw dental arch, and to create a mandibular Schwartz appliance, a lingual arch, and a lip bumper. Methods: The thesis is based on a review of scientific literature and gathering data on dentoalveolar expansion of the lower jaw, dental and jaw irregularities, the impact of orofacial functional deviations on the development of irregularities, and appliances for expanding the lower jaw dental arch, with a focus on laboratory-made appliances. Professional literature was searched for in both Slovene and English on platforms such as PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect and COBISS. The expansion appliances were created in an orthodontic laboratory and documented using a smartphone. Results: The thesis provides a detailed description of all laboratory stages involved in the creation of three lower jaw expansion appliances: a mandibular Schwartz appliance, a lingual arch, and a lip bumper, and presents them with visual material. Discussion and conclusion: Preventive othodontic treatment allows for early discovery and correction of dental and jaw anomalies. This lowers the need for more demanding or even surgical treatment. Mandibular expansion appliances create tooth inclination which leads to expansion in the mandibular arch and space gain. Treatment succes depends on the quality of cooperation between the clinc and laboratory as well as on the patients motivation.
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