Palate Expanders

There are many potential reasons we may prescribe a palate expander. Here is a list of the potential reasons:

• Posterior Crossbite
• Anterior Crossbite
• Underbite
• Severe dental/tooth crowding
• Lower jaw asymmetry
• Narrow upper jaw
• Sleep Disordered Breathing

One of the most common reasons for an orthodontic palate expander is the presence of a crossbite.  A crossbite is where one or more of the upper teeth are inside the lower teeth.  Sometimes a crossbite is commonly referred to as a ‘scissor bite.’  Crossbites can lead to future problems such as jaw pain, facial asymmetry, and excessive tooth wear. 

Palate expanders can sometimes be used to decrease the severity of dental crowding in a growing child.  However, expanders will not be able to fully correct crowding.  Any decrease in crowding observed from an expander is an ancillary benefit. 

The usual time for an orthodontic palate expander is 6-8 months. The doctors will prescribe how often to turn the appliance–generally one time every 4 days (or twice a week). Some doctors like to use a rapid expansion (turning daily) but we prefer a slower, consistent pace that reduces patient discomfort. We monitor the patient throughout this process, and we have the parent/guardian turn the appliance at a prescribed interval to maintain consistent progress. After the proper amount of expansion has been achieved, we will leave the expander in for an additional 8 weeks to allow for the upper jaw to stabilize. Early removal of the expander can cause immediate relapse, and then the expander has to be replaced and started again. We will remove the palate expander and replace it with a smaller and more comfortable retainer appliance.