PALATE EXPANDERS (SPACERS)
Orthodontic solutions like palate expanders can effectively address common dental issues in children, such as crossbites and a narrow upper jaw. These expanders gradually widen the roof of the mouth to improve jaw alignment and function.
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Dental conditions like crossbites or a narrow upper jaw are quite common among children. However, there is nothing to worry about as orthodontic equipment like palate expanders can help to rectify these issues easily.
The expanders are mostly used on pre-adolescent children but can also be applied to teens and adults. The palate expanders are used to expand the roof of your mouth slowly to widen up the upper jaw.
Why Do You Need A Palate Expander (SPACERS)?
A palate expander can rectify a wide range of dental conditions, like:
It helps widen the jaws, which in turn helps make room for proper tooth alignment. A narrow jaw can cause crowded or crooked teeth, and it can even lead to impacted teeth due to the reduced gum space.
It also helps in rectifying crossbites, a dental malocclusion wherein the teeth in the upper jaws sit inside the lower ones. Crossbites can cause various problems like pain, tooth decay, and even sleep apnea if left untreated.
How does a palate expander work?
Have you seen a car jacket? A palate expander works just like that. It applies pressure to both the sides of your upper jaws, enabling it to move slowly apart. This widens the space in the upper jaws while keeping your joints intact. Your orthodontist will thoroughly check the conditions of your mouth to determine if you would need a palate expander. They will also keep you under constant observation and keep on upgrading your palate expander until they are satisfied with your final jaw expansion results.
It is essential to clean your palate expander properly to maintain oral hygiene. If your child is given an expander, ensure that they brush it whenever they brush their teeth. Also, talk to the orthodontist to know about food restrictions while wearing the expanders. Initially, anyone might feel some discomfort wearing them, but gradually the mouth will adjust with it. Contact us at Parkland Orthodontics today if you wish to know more about palate expander or want to get it for your kids!
WHAT IS A PALATAL EXPANDER?
A palatal expander is a custom-fitted orthodontic appliance that gradually widens the upper jaw (the palate) to correct bite alignment and make more room for permanent teeth. It’s typically recommended for children and pre-teens while the bones of the face are still developing and easier to guide.
The device is usually anchored to the upper molars and includes a small screw in the center. By turning this screw a little each day, the appliance gently applies pressure to widen the two halves of the upper jaw. Over time, the bone naturally fills in the space—permanently expanding the arch.
WHEN IS A PALATAL EXPANDER NEEDED?
Dr. Franco may recommend a palatal expander as part of an early orthodontic treatment plan if your child shows signs of:
CROSS BITE
CROWDING
IMPACTED TEETH
NARROW UPPER JAW
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING TREATMENT?
Dr. Franco will perform a thorough orthodontic evaluation using digital X-rays and scans to determine if a palate expander is the right solution. Every treatment plan is tailored to your child’s needs and timing is everything—expanders are most effective between ages 7 and 13.
Once the appliance is in place, you’ll receive simple instructions on how to activate the screw. It usually takes a few weeks to complete the expansion phase, though the appliance will remain in the mouth for several months to stabilize the new bone growth.
During this time, your child may feel pressure or tightness after each turn—but most children adjust quickly and experience little to no discomfort after the first few days.