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 online or call Mile Square Orthodontics at (201) 537-3535 for an appointment in our Hoboken office.
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