Creating Space for Healthy Growth and Beautiful Smiles
Some bite problems are easier to treat if they are caught at an early age. That’s why the American Association of Orthodontists recommends every child have an orthodontic evaluation by age 7, even if treatment is not yet needed. For growing children and adolescents, an expander can gradually widen the jaw, providing the space needed for proper teeth eruption while creating the foundation for healthy jaw development, balanced facial growth, and beautiful, lasting smiles
Expander Q & A
What is an expander?
A palatal expander is an orthodontic appliance designed to gradually widen the upper jaw, creating additional space for permanent teeth to erupt and align properly. In growing children and adolescents, expansion can also help correct certain bite discrepancies, such as crossbites, while supporting healthy jaw development. In appropriate patients, palatal expansion may also contribute to improved nasal airflow and healthy facial development.
The appliance is activated with a small specialized key, allowing gentle, controlled expansion over time. Because the upper jaw is still developing in younger patients, this process is typically comfortable and highly effective.
While expansion is most commonly performed in the upper jaw, specialized lower expansion appliances may be recommended in select cases based on a patient’s individual orthodontic needs.
Which conditions can an expander treat?
An expander is ideal for treating issues that can’t be corrected with braces alone. The doctor may recommend an expander to treat:
- Crossbite
- Overcrowding
- Impacted teeth
- Mouth breathing
How long do I wear an expander?
It depends on the severity of misalignment issues, although several months of expander wear is common. The doctor adjusts the expander as needed and you check in regularly.
Even after you achieve optimal expansion, the expander may stay in place for several more months to allow new bone to grow in the gap to ensure permanent stabilization.