Making Room for Big Smiles

A palatal expander is a small dental device that helps to gently widen the upper jaw to make more room for permanent teeth and improve overall bite. It’s commonly used during Phase 1 orthodontic treatment, before all of the permanent teeth have come in.

Two common reasons why a patient may need a palatal expander include:

• Crossbite: When the upper teeth are positioned behind the corresponding lower teeth when the jaw is closed. The expander can correct this by widening the underlying bone.
• Crowding: When a narrow jaw can lead to inadequate space for teeth to align correctly. The expander can create space to shift the teeth into their proper positions.

As previously mentioned, the palatal expander is most often used during Phase 1 orthodontic treatment, when children are still growing. By focusing on creating space, guiding jaw growth, and correcting harmful habits early, the expander can help to avoid more invasive treatments later on. At RxSmile Orthodontics we use both the Rapid Palatal Expander and the Invisalign Palatal Expander.

The Rapid Palatal Expander (RPE) is a type of expander that fits in the roof of the mouth and attaches to the back teeth for stability. There is a tiny screw in the middle that you turn each day with a special key to slowly widen the upper jaw. Most often, the actual expanding of the jaw with the key takes between three and six months, and then the expander is left in for an additional six or so months to allow the bones to stabilize and set in their new position. The time frame, however, can all vary based on a number of factors including age and severity of the condition.

The Invisalign Palatal Expander (IPE) System is a new option for children in need of early orthodontic treatment that was designed with comfort and aesthetics in mind. It’s the only FDA-cleared, removable palatal expander that’s just as effective as traditional expanders when used in the right cases. Designed for children between ages 6 and 11, it offers a custom fit, is removable for easier cleaning, and is often less noticeable. One of the big differences between the Invisalign Palatal Expander and a traditional one, is that the Invisalign system eliminates the need to make adjustments regularly. This is because the Invisalign Palatal Expander works by using a series of 3D-printed expanders that gradually widen to create space for adult teeth. So, you, or your child, are able to just pop it out and replace it with a new one.

We use palatal expanders as a proactive way to guide jaw growth in growing children. Depending on which palatal expander is best for your child’s treatment plan, these are some of the benefits you will notice:

• Creates space for permanent teeth: By gently widening the upper jaw, the expander can help stop overcrowding and make more room for the permanent teeth to come in.
• Improves bite alignment: Since expanders help bite issues, by setting up the jaws to fit together early one, the teeth will be aligned for a comfortable and efficient bite.
• Can improve breathing: In some cases, a palatal expander can also help open up the nasal airway, helping to reduce mouth breathing and snoring and improve sleep quality.
• Supports facial development: By guiding jaw growth early, expanders can positively impact facial symmetry and overall appearance.
• Can help avoid more invasive treatments later on: Starting with an expander during Phase 1 orthodontic treatment can help prevent later dental issues from arising.

While the Invisalign Palatal Expander and its new technology is a great fit for some children, traditional expanders are still an important and effective tool in orthodontics. Expanders with proper care, cleaning, and regular checkups by an orthodontist are safe and very effective in correcting orthodontic issues. There can be some discomfort as your child adjusts to their new expander, but it should only last for a short time. At RxSmile, Drs. Greenberg and Ortiz evaluate each child’s unique needs based on age, anatomy, and treatment goals to determine which type of expander is the best option for them.