A Parent's Guide to Palatal Expanders

As a parent, you want the best for your child's dental health. Palatal expanders are a common orthodontic appliance used to correct certain dental issues in children. If you've heard about palatal expanders but aren't quite sure what they are or how they work, you're in the right place. 

At Lovely Smiles Orthodontics, Nicole Thompson, DMD, and our dedicated team located in Richmond, Texas, understand that some smiles need a little more help with alignment than braces can provide. That’s why we offer various orthodontic appliance options, including palatal expanders, that align with your specific needs. 

In this blog, we'll take you through everything you need to know about palatal expanders – from what they are and how they function to their benefits and potential considerations. Let’s get started!

What are palatal expanders? 

Palatal expanders are orthodontic devices designed to widen the upper jaw (maxilla) in children with a narrow dental arch. Typically recommended for children between the ages of 7 and 15, palatal (or palate) expanders consist of a metal framework with a middle screw attached to the upper molars on each side of the mouth. 

Dr. Thompson regularly adjusts the screw to gradually widen the upper jaw, applying gentle pressure on the palate. This process encourages bone growth and expansion, creating more space in the mouth for improved dental alignment and overall oral health.

Benefits of palatal expanders 

Palatal expanders offer several advantages in addressing specific dental issues and supporting overall oral health in children:

Correcting crowding 

By expanding the upper jaw, palatal expanders create additional space for crowded teeth to align properly.

Improving bite alignment 

Palatal expansion can help correct crossbites and improve the alignment of the upper and lower teeth.

Enhancing breathing and speech 

Expanding the palate can improve nasal breathing and speech issues caused by a narrow arch.

Preventing future problems 

Addressing jaw and bite concerns early on can prevent more severe orthodontic issues in the future.

Considerations and care 

While palatal expanders can offer numerous benefits, it's essential to be aware of some considerations and care tips:

Discomfort and adjustments 

Initially, your child may experience mild discomfort as the expander is activated. This discomfort should subside after a short period. Regular adjustments are necessary for optimal results.

Oral hygiene 

Proper oral hygiene is crucial during the treatment period. Encourage your child to maintain regular brushing and flossing to keep the expander and teeth clean.

Dietary restrictions 

Certain foods, such as sticky or hard items, may need to be avoided during treatment to prevent damage to the expander.

Follow-up appointments 

Regular visits to our office are necessary to monitor progress and ensure the expander is functioning as intended.

As a parent, understanding palatal expanders and their potential benefits can help you make informed decisions about your child's dental health. Palatal expanders offer a conservative and effective way to address specific dental concerns and support proper jaw development. From correcting crowded teeth to enhancing breathing and speech, palatal expanders can positively impact your child's oral health and overall well-being.

If you have any questions or concerns about whether a palatal expander is the right choice for your child, give our office a call at 832-219-7687 and request an appointment today!