When most people think of orthodontic treatment for kids, they think of braces. While braces are great, they are not the only orthodontic appliance that your child might need. For example, some kids benefit from the use of a palatal expander. What is a palatal expander, and what else should you know about this treatment? This blog post shares some important details.
What Is a Palatal Expander?
A palatal expander is a custom-made orthodontic device that fits over several upper teeth in the back of your child’s mouth. Its purpose is to gently widen the upper jaw, also known as the palate, by applying consistent pressure over time. As your child’s jaw gradually expands, space is created for crowded teeth, which can lead to improved dental alignment and a healthier bite.
Some palatal expanders are fixed in the mouth, while others are removable.
What Can You Expect During Treatment?
When your child first receives a palatal expander, they may experience minor discomfort or pressure as the device begins to work. Your orthodontist will provide instructions on how to activate the expander, which may involve turning a small screw with a special key. You should expect some changes in speech and eating habits at first, but most children adjust quickly.
Regular checkups with the orthodontist are important to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments. Good oral hygiene is essential during treatment, since food can sometimes get trapped around the device (especially if it is fixed in the mouth). You may need to assist your child with thorough brushing and rinsing to keep both the expander and their teeth clean.
How Long Does the Treatment Take?
The duration of palatal expander treatment can vary depending on each child’s unique needs. Most children wear an expander for about 3 – 12 months, with the active phase of expansion typically lasting a few weeks. After the palate has reached the desired width, the expander usually remains in place for a few more months to allow the newly formed bone to stabilize.
What Are the Benefits of Palatal Expansion?
Palatal expanders offer some outstanding benefits:
- Palatal expanders create space for crowded teeth, which helps improve dental alignment and can reduce the need for future dental procedures.
- This treatment improves your child’s bite, which contributes to greater comfort and better oral function.
- Palatal expansion can enhance facial symmetry and positively influence the overall appearance of your child’s smile.
- Future orthodontic treatments may be more effective and sometimes shorter in duration after using a palatal expander.
- A palatal expander can lower the risk of impacted teeth (teeth that get stuck beneath the gumline).
- Palatal expanders support healthy jaw and airway development, which can have a positive impact on breathing and oral function.
A palatal expander can accomplish a lot! If you have questions about this treatment, do not hesitate to talk to your child’s orthodontist.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Megan Hanson is a highly accomplished orthodontist whose work has been published in both the Journal of Clinical Orthodontics and the American Journal of Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics. She enjoys working with patients of virtually all ages, and palatal expanders are among the services she offers. To learn more about Dr. Hanson or to request a consultation for your child, contact our Allen, TX, office at 972-727-1153.