Orthodontic Expanders: Commonly Asked Questions
Orthodontic expanders optimize most of a child's natural teeth growing process by correcting or stopping malocclusions or misalignment. By progressively broadening the upper jaw, the palate expander assists an orthodontist in creating extra room in a child's mouth. Although the appliance may appear or sound intimidating at first, it works gradually and painlessly. Discover the answers to five questions that parents often ask about orthodontic expanders.
What is an orthodontic expander?
An orthodontic expander is a customized orthodontic device that fits over several upper teeth at the rear of the mouth. The device consists of two sides that are screwed together in the middle. Each day, a specific key is used to initiate the turn screw. The palatal bones start to expand and drift apart slowly. The appliance will stay in the mouth for about three to six months after getting the necessary expansion, so new bone can develop in the space and stabilize the development.
Why is it necessary?
There are three instances in which a child's palate may need to be expanded.
Crossbite: For an abnormally small upper jaw that fails to connect properly with the lower jaw, the rear top teeth will align inside instead of outside the lower teeth. A patient with a narrow palate may have a crossbite, and this can lead to unequal lower jaw development, which if not rectified, can cause facial asymmetry.
Overcrowding: A pediatric dentist can tell if there will be adequate room for a child's permanent teeth even before they fully emerge. Without having to pull any teeth, they can make room by broadening the upper jaw.
Impacted teeth: An impacted tooth is one that has not yet erupted but is obstructed by other teeth. The canines are the most usually affected. The upper jaw can be widened to provide enough room for a tooth to slip down into the right place independently.
Breathing Problems: Breathing via the nose might be challenging for a child with a narrow or deep upper jaw. Constant mouth breathing results in unfiltered bacteria inhalation, dry mouth, and other health problems.
How can one adjust an expander?
It is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to turn the orthodontic expanders at the intervals recommended by the orthodontist once it has been implanted in the child's mouth. The device's rotation is what expands the upper jaw. Aside from the set of instructions, the child's dentist will provide a specially designed key that fits into an opening in the device.
What are the common side effects?
As the upper jaw extends and widens, orthodontic expanders can cause discomfort and pain. Other side effects include jaw ache, headaches, sinus pressure, speech difficulties, high saliva production, and a gap between the front teeth. Food particles can also get lodged between the device and the roof of the mouth.
In conclusion
If you think that your child might benefit from orthodontic expanders, talk to the pediatric dentist. Book an appointment today to get started.
Request an appointment here: https://www.citrusgrovesmiles.com or call Citrus Grove Orthodontics at (562) 222-4829 for an appointment in our Whittier office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Orthodontic Expanders in Whittier, CA.
Related Posts
An orthodontist specializes in malocclusions, or dental misalignments, that affect the jawbone, teeth, or facial symmetry. If a dentist recommended you or your child for this dental specialist, you may wonder what to expect at the first appointment. While it is a relatively simple process, there are some differences in how the orthodontist and their…
Invisalign® for teens improves the alignment of your child’s teeth without them having a mouthful of metal brackets and wires. Metal braces have been the standard way to fix teeth alignment problems and have been used since the 1800s.While braces remain one of the most effective ways to straighten teeth, these devices are highly visible…
Looking for a braces specialist? Read on to learn more. You might be hesitant to see a braces specialist if you already see a general dentist regularly. In some cases, patients have an individual situation that requires consulting a specialist. Generally, these professionals have more experience in orthodontics and a consultation with them might make…
Having orthodontic care makes a lot of sense in many situations. If you have crooked teeth or bite dysfunctions, this treatment may be right. Orthodontics can also be effective if you have gaps in your mouth or oddly shaped or worn teeth. The same is true for a crowded mouth. If you neglect to seek…