Many people see orthodontics as just braces, but there are actually many different appliances that fall into orthodontic care. Braces are certainly a part of that, but so are things like teeth expanders, Herbst appliances, retainers, headgear, and more. Each tool has a unique responsibility that it can do, some of them accomplishing many oral health and alignment goals. A palatal expander widens the upper jaw to assist in correcting multiple issues.

In this guide, we will take a closer look at palatal expanders, covering how they work, who might need them, and even what you can expect during treatment with this appliance. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know!

What is a Palatal Expander?

This appliance is part of orthodontic care solutions specifically designed to help widen the upper jaw, also known as the maxilla. It truly is designed to expand and it does so gradually over a period of time. Expanders can help with issues like crowding, crossbites, breathing difficulties, and more. Your orthodontist will know if this is an appliance that would benefit you or could be a valuable part of your treatment. These expanders are custom made for each person to ensure they fit the jaw and can expand it slowly as designed.

The appliance might have different looks depending on how it is made, but there are generally two halves, fitted and attached to the roof of your mouth. The halves are attached by an expanding mechanism that turns by a small key. Each day, or at the intervals determined by your provider, the screw in the expander is turned and this promotes gradual bone expansion of the upper jaw.

This is often used in children or young adolescents because their upper jaw is not fully fused so it is highly effective in broadening their palates to create more space and allow for better overall tooth alignment. The expander will be worn until the desired results are achieved. When spreading is needed, this step often happens before braces are applied to assist in realignment.

Why Are Palatal Expanders Used?

Without this type of appliance available in orthodontic care, there would be no simple way to effectively expand the upper jaw. It’s the next best option to something like surgery to force an expansion and it’s not heavily painful or uncomfortable because it’s gradual in nature.

A teeth expander might be used for a variety of different reasons, but remember the final goal is to provide expansion of the upper jaw to accommodate common issues. These are some of the common issues:

  • Crossbites: a narrow upper jaw might cause back teeth to bite inside the lower teeth, which can lead to major bite challenges, especially misalignment and uneven wear on the teeth, but an expander can help correct this problem.
  • Crowding: expanding the upper jaw can make more room inside the mouth for teeth that are overly crowded together or simply there is no room for when permanent teeth come in and it helps prevent extractions to make room.
  • Airway Function: narrow palaces can cause people to have breathing issues, including ailments like sleep apnea. Expanding the upper jaw makes it easier to breathe, enhancing airflow capability and nasal breathing capability too.
  • Facial Symmetry: poor jaw development and misalignment can cause an imbalance with aesthetics and facial features, but correcting the issue can bring everything back into place to improve symmetry and appearance.

Who Should Consider a Palatal Expander?

The best thing to do is work with a professional in orthodontic care to assess your needs. If you suspect you have a narrow upper jaw and would benefit from this appliance, ask your provider. It is important to know that teeth expanders are primarily used in children and pre-teens since their jaws are still developing at these ages. That being said, there are times they are used for teenagers and adults, but there are often added steps required for orthodontic intervention as a person gets older.

Orthodontists are trained and knowledgeable about the various appliances and treatment options. They can make fully informed decisions and help to develop a full plan based on your unique needs. Just because the jaw bone is easier to move for children and pre-teens does not mean that it’s impossible for older ages than that. It is very much a tailored approach to make the determination.

Different Types of Palatal Expanders

There are different types of palatal expanders available. Your provider may only offer a specific type of device or they may choose one based on your needs. We just want to share a quick overview of the different options in the market.

  • Rapid Palatal Expander: this is a fixed device attached to your teeth and a small screw is used to gradually widen the jaw over a series of weeks or months
  • Removable Palatal Expander: used for minor expansion needs and is removable for cleaning purposes
  • Implant Supported Expander: less common and typically used only for older patients who have mature jawbones and other oral challenges. The device is attached to mini implants for stability
  • Surgically Assisted Rapid Palatal Expander: also less common and used for adults who have fully fused palates to assist with surgical intervention and palatal expansion

What to Expect During Treatment

Orthodontic care can be so unique to the person being treated. The truth is that every experience is customized to specific and unique needs. However, most treatment processes will be very similar in the approach. What will be tailored is your specific treatment, as well as time to completion and adjustment periods.

Initially, you will consult with a professional. They will recommend the appliance, or it may be part of a larger treatment plan. Impressions and imaging will be taken to ensure the appliance can be built to your upper jaw. Once that is ready, they will place it into your mouth. The most common is the rapid palatal expander that is fixed to your teeth until removed professionally.

A caregiver or yourself will be responsible for turning the screw daily or as instructed by the provider. The patient may experience some mild discomfort initially but will likely adjust within a few days and not be bothered by the appliance or the expansion process.

Conclusion

Palatal expanders can play a significant role in orthodontics and full treatment, helping to correct bite issues and make space for proper tooth alignment as well. The appliance resolves many different issues when used properly and a qualified orthodontist can be there to support you through the entire journey.