Expanders are custom-made appliances that can play an important role in orthodontic treatment. A narrow upper jaw can contribute to several orthodontic issues that are not treatable with braces alone. Therefore, an orthodontist may recommend this appliance to create more space for teeth to align properly.
Expanders, commonly referred to as palatal expanders, fit across the roof of the mouth. Though palatal expanders come in a few different forms, they aim to gradually widen the palate to create more space to accommodate proper tooth alignment. Through the slow application of pressure on the upper molars, these devices slowly widen the arch of the upper teeth.
The typical candidate for a palatal expander is a child or teenager with a narrow palate that is causing or may cause orthodontic issues. There are special expanders for adults; however, treatment is more complicated given that adults have fully developed bones that take longer to move. A child's jaws are still growing, and their palate has not yet fully fused, making it easier to shape.
An orthodontist may recommend palatal expanders as a corrective or preventative treatment in the following instances.
A narrow palate can contribute to overcrowding, and this is a leading reason treatment is recommended. Without enough room for teeth to erupt properly, teeth can erupt misaligned or become impacted. Using a palatal expander to create space can improve the outcome of future orthodontic treatment and help the patient avoid tooth extraction.
When the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth rather than overlapping them while biting down, this is known as a crossbite. This malocclusion can result from the upper jaw being too narrow and contribute to difficulty choosing, speaking, and, in some cases, breathing. The palatal expander can help correct the crossbite so that the teeth align properly when the bite is closed.
Patients with a narrow or high-arched palate can have trouble breathing through the nose, which has been known to contribute to sleep apnea. An expander can help widen the upper jaw and create a more balanced structure that allows for improved breathing.
Treatment with a palatal expander will differ based on the patient's age and situation. For children, treatment may take only a few weeks to a couple of months, while treatment for adults requires greater force and takes around six months to over a year. The patient will come in for routine adjustments during treatment until the desired width is achieved. Then, the expander may be left in place for several more months to stabilize these results.
Proper alignment of the teeth and jaw is crucial to oral health and function. A narrow palate can contribute to several oral health issues. To learn more about palate expanders or improving your health through orthodontic treatment, call our team today.
Request an appointment here: https://www.friscofamilyorthodontics.com or call Frisco Family Orthodontics at (214) 618-8240 for an appointment in our Frisco office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Expanders in Frisco, TX.
Walking into an orthodontist's office for the first time can feel like a step into the unknown — especially for parents bringing a child, or adults who have put off treatment for years. The good news: your first visit at Frisco Family Orthodontics is relaxed, informative, and completely commitment-free. Dr. Prasad and our team welcome…
If you are considering clear aligners for yourself or your teen here in Frisco, one question comes up before almost any other: how much does Invisalign actually cost? At Frisco Family Orthodontics, we believe families deserve a straight answer before they ever sit in the chair. Dr. Prasad and our team have helped patients across…
A broken bracket is one of the most common issues orthodontic patients in Frisco experience during treatment. These failures often result from hard or sticky foods, accidental trauma, or nighttime grinding, and can affect the progress of your smile if left unaddressed. Frisco Family Orthodontics is here to help you understand what to do when…
Average braces treatment time is the standard amount of orthodontic time required to shift teeth into place, generally expressed in terms of months or years. Treatment time most frequently varies from 12 to 36 months depending on age, severity of misalignment, type of braces, and cooperation. Kids and teens typically finish more quickly because their…