Palatal ExpandersIn Bozeman
Orthodontic treatment has evolved over the years, offering a variety of solutions to address different dental issues. One such innovation is the palatal expander! This device is used primarily in children and young adolescents to widen the upper jaw, creating more space for teeth to grow in correctly and prevent overcrowding. It works by applying gentle pressure to the upper molars each time an adjustment is made. Over time, this pressure separates the palatal bones and stimulates the body to fill the gap with new bone tissue, leading to an expanded palate.
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- MON
- 8 AM - 5 PM
- TUE
- 8 AM - 5 PM
- WED
- 8 AM - 5 PM
- THU
- 8 AM - 5 PM
- FRI
- By Request
Why Should I Get Palatal Expanders?
A narrow upper jaw can lead to several issues, such as crossbite, overcrowding, and breathing problems. Palatal expanders are a proactive solution to these potential problems, especially in children whose jaws are still developing. By widening the upper jaw, these expanders can help create the necessary space for permanent teeth to grow in without crowding, reducing the need for tooth extraction in the future. They can also correct crossbites and improve nasal airflow, leading to better overall oral health.
Did you know…
A palatal expander is one of the few orthodontic devices that can actually increase the size of your mouth!
The Benefits Of Palatal Expanders
Prevents Future Dental Issues
By addressing the issue of a narrow upper jaw early on, palatal expanders can prevent a host of future dental problems. Overcrowding can lead to crooked teeth, which are not only aesthetically displeasing but can also make cleaning more difficult, leading to cavities and gum disease. Crossbites can cause uneven wear on teeth and lead to problems with jaw alignment. By widening the jaw, palatal expanders create more space for teeth to grow in properly, reducing the risk of these issues.
Improves Breathing
A narrow upper jaw can sometimes obstruct the nasal passages, leading to mouth breathing, snoring, and even sleep apnea. By expanding the palate, the nasal passages can open up more, leading to improved airflow. This can result in better sleep, increased focus, and overall improved quality of life.
Reduces Treatment Time
In many cases, early intervention with a palatal expander can reduce the overall time a child needs to spend in braces. By creating the necessary space for teeth to grow in correctly, the process of straightening teeth can be more efficient, leading to a shorter treatment time.
The Palatal Expander Treatment Process
Consultation and Diagnosis
Consultation and Diagnosis
The first step in any orthodontic treatment is a thorough examination and diagnosis. Dr. Vivian Snider will assess your child's teeth and jaw alignment to determine if a palatal expander is the right choice for their needs.
Fitting the Expander
Fitting the Expander
If a palatal expander is recommended, the next step is fitting the device. This is a custom-made appliance that fits over several top teeth in the back of the mouth. It is typically cemented in place to ensure it stays put.
Adjusting the Expander
Adjusting the Expander
Once the expander is in place, it will need to be adjusted regularly to apply the necessary pressure to the upper jaw. These adjustments are made using a special key and are typically done at home following the orthodontist's instructions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Check out these frequently asked questions, or call us to speak with our team.