Palatal Expander in Liberty Township or Hamilton OH – Expert Guide

Welcome to our guide on Maxillary Palatal Expanders! If these three words sound a bit too scientific, don’t worry. We’re here to break it all down in a simple, easy-to-understand manner. Whether you’re a curious individual or a concerned parent or patient this guide is designed for you. We’ll explore what maxillary palatal expanders are, why they might be needed in orthodontic treatment, and how they work, all while keeping the jargon to a minimum. So, sit back, relax, and let’s embark on this enlightening journey to understanding the fascinating world of maxillary palatal expanders.

What is a Palatal Expander?

• A palatal expander is a device designed to help widen the upper jaw in children or young adults. Its primary purpose is to widen a narrow type jaw and create more space for the growth and alignment of teeth and correct a posterior crossbite.
• It’s a type of orthodontic appliance which fits into the roof of the mouth. The expander applies gentle pressure to gradually move the bones in the mouth.
• Palatal expanders are usually recommended by orthodontists for children with overcrowded teeth or a narrow upper jaw. They’re also used to correct crossbites and other malocclusions.
• Though it might feel a little strange at first, most people get used to wearing a palatal expander pretty quickly. It’s a common and safe procedure that has helped many children and young adults achieve a healthier and more confident smile!

Rapid Palatal Expansion: How do Palatal Expanders Work

Palatal expanders gradually widen the upper jaw, which is sometimes necessary for orthodontic treatment in narrow upper jaws, and can create space for teeth. They do this by applying pressure on the upper molars each time an adjustment is made. A small turn key is used for adjustments to create rapid maxillary expansion, separating the two halves of the upper jaw which are united by the midpalatal suture, made of cartilage.

• The orthodontic expander is a custom-made orthodontic device that fits over several teeth in the back of the mouth.
• Each time the screw is turned, a small amount of tension is placed on the palatal bones. This encourages them to move apart over time, expanding the palate.
• The process of expander treatment is not instant but happens gradually over weeks or months. We will provide a special key to turn the screw at a prescribed rate.
• As the jaw expands, new bone fills in the gap. This process is called bone remodeling and is why the results of palatal expansion are permanent.
• Though the process might sound a bit intimidating, most patients experience only minor discomfort. It’s often described as a feeling of pressure on the teeth or the roof of the mouth.
• Overall, palatal expanders are a safe, effective, and minimally invasive way to create more space in the mouth and promote healthier tooth and jaw alignment.

At What Age should a Child Get a Palatal Expander?

• There isn’t a precise age when a child should get a palatal expander. It usually depends on the individual dental needs of the child.
• However, most orthodontists recommend palatal expanders for children between the ages of 6 and 12. This is when the jaw is still growing and the palate (or roof of the mouth) is more susceptible to reshaping.
• Remember, every child is unique and their dental development can vary. It’s essential to consult with a dentist or orthodontist to determine the best time for your child to get a palatal expander.

What are the types of Palatal Expanders?

Rapid Palatal Expander

A Rapid palatal Expander, often called an RPE, is a device that Dr. Crasto might use to create more space in your mouth. It’s typically used in kids whose jaws are still growing. The device is attached to the roof of the mouth and gradually widened, which causes the two halves of the palate to move apart over time. It sounds a little scary, but don’t worry, it’s painless and a common practice in orthodontics.

Why Consider a Palatal Expander

An palatal expander is considered for several reasons, all of which revolve around improving oral health and the aesthetics of the smile. It’s an orthodontic device that creates more space in the mouth by gradually widening the upper jaw. While this might sound a little scary, it’s a pretty common and non-invasive treatment that orthodontists recommend. Firstly, the palatal expander addresses the problem of overcrowded teeth. When there’s not enough space in the mouth, teeth can overlap, twist and turn or impact a tooth. This not only affects the appearance of the smile but can also make teeth harder to clean, leading to potential oral health issues down the line. Secondly, the palatal expander can correct a posterior crossbite. This is when the upper teeth close inside the lower ones. A crossbite can lead to uneven wear on teeth, changes in facial symmetry, and even problems with jaw growth. Lastly, the palatal expander can also help with breathing issues. Sometimes, a narrow jaw can affect the nasal passages, making it harder to breathe through the nose. By doing dental and skeletal expansion, the palatal expander can help improve breathing. Your orthodontist can guide you on whether maxillary expansion is the right choice for you or your child. Remember, the goal is to create a healthier and more confident smile, and a palatal expander can be a helpful tool in achieving desired results.

What to Expect with an Orthodontic Expander

• First off, don’t worry! Palatal expanders are a common orthodontic device used to widen the upper jaw. They are generally used in children whose palates are still growing.
• At first, you might feel a little discomfort or pressure when the expander is adjusted. This is completely normal and should subside after a few days. Remember, it’s a sign that the device is working!
• You might notice a gap developing between your front teeth. Don’t panic – this is a positive indication that the expander is doing its job to create more space in your mouth.
• Speaking and eating might feel a bit strange at first. But don’t worry, you’ll quickly get used to the expander and these activities will become easier with a little practice.
• Keeping your expander clean is key to a healthy mouth during treatment. You can do this by brushing around it while you’re cleaning your teeth and using a water flosser or a syringe to rinse underneath it.
• Finally, remember to follow your orthodontist’s instructions carefully. This will help ensure the best possible result from your treatment. And remember, the end result – a beautiful, healthy smile – is definitely worth it!

Expander Treatment in Adults: MARPE

MARPE, or Miniscrew-Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion, is a dental treatment technique often used in adults to widen a narrow upper jaw. This method is quite innovative because, traditionally, palatal expansion was thought to be effective only in children whose jaw bones are still growing. However, MARPE has shown promising results in adults. It uses small screws, or miniscrews, to apply force and gradually expand the upper jaw. This can help to correct issues like crossbite and crowding of teeth. It’s a fascinating development in the field of orthodontics!