As a parent, you play a huge part in maintaining your children’s oral health. However, they may have different oral care needs than you did when you were younger, especially since the advancement of technology now allows us to provide better orthodontic treatments than ever before. If your child has crooked, overlapping, impacted, or crowded teeth, or maybe they have developed a crossbite, you may want to consider early intervention orthodontic treatment. If this sounds unfamiliar, there is no need to fret. Today, we will walk you through what early intervention treatment (palatal expansion) is, how orthodontic expanders work, and their benefits for children’s orthodontic health.
What is Palatal Expansion?
To put it simply, palatal expansion is a treatment used to widen the upper and/or lower jaw(s) so as to correct alignment and make room for permanent teeth. Patients with crossbites and crowding can use this treatment method to widen their palate, creating more space to resolve their dental issues and improve their oral health.
How Do Palatal Expanders Work?
Palatal expanders, also known as orthodontic expanders, are oral appliances that are placed onto the roof of the mouth and/or on the tongue side of the lower teeth. It works by applying pressure to both halves of the jaw, slowly widening the space. Once the palatal expander creates that space, the body will naturally fill that space with bone tissue to solidify the expansion.
What are the Benefits of Palatal Expanders?
Palatal expanders are typically recommended for children with crooked, overlapping, impacted, or overcrowded teeth, as well as those with a crossbite or sleep apnea. For example, if your child has overcrowded teeth, braces may not be enough to make them straight, as there simply isn’t enough space without pulling teeth out. A palatal expansion treatment creates that critical space within the mouth, allowing orthodontic work to continue without removing any teeth unnecessarily.
It is recommended that a palatal expansion take place when patients are young for multiple reasons. Not only are children’s jaws far more malleable when they are young, but starting expansion early can help guide jaw growth and minimize future problems. Our advancements in imaging technology allow us to identify potential concerns with far greater accuracy than ever, preventing them from becoming severe issues in adulthood.
What to Expect During Orthodontic Expanders Treatment:
First, you will have an in-depth consultation with your orthodontist to determine if palatal expanders should be included in your child’s orthodontic treatment plan. If you and your orthodontist have determined that a palatal expansion treatment is the best course of action for your child’s oral health, you will then move forward with the treatment.
Next, the palatal expanders will be placed. There are a variety of types of palatal expanders, so the appliance placed will be the one chosen as the best fit for your child’s needs. The installation process can be a little nerve-wracking for some children, so we recommend chatting with us about steps you can take to provide your child with the best experience.
Then, over the following 48 hours after the installation, some discomfort can be expected. We recommend having Tylenol or Ibuprofen available and providing your child with soft, easy-to-chew food for their next several meals.
During this time, your child’s mouth will most likely be a little sore. In addition, their mouth will temporarily produce a bit more saliva than normal as it adjusts to the new appliance. They may also experience some difficulty speaking and swallowing in the way they are used to for a few days after the appliances are placed. Practicing swallowing, talking, or singing is the fastest way to adjust to the new appliances.
Moving forward, you or your child will need to turn their palatal expanders before bedtime on specific days using the provided key (your orthodontist will make sure you are comfortable performing these turns when the expanders are placed). If a turn is missed, you will need to make note of it, but do not make up the missed turn. Just let your orthodontist know at your next appointment.
Slowly but surely, your child’s mouth will expand, and the orthodontic expanders will be removed after the treatment is complete. Depending on your child’s specific needs, this may be the end of their orthodontic treatment plan, or they may move on to the next step, such as traditional braces or Invisalign.
Common Questions About Orthodontic Expanders:
Q: How long does a palatal expansion treatment take?
A: The treatment length depends on the case’s severity and the patient’s diligence in completing the prescribed turns. Typically, it can take between 6-12 months; however, it will depend on the case.
Q: Are there certain foods you can’t eat with expanders?
A: Hard, crunchy, or sticky foods can cause damage to orthodontic appliances, so it is best to avoid them during treatment. Sugary and acidic beverages like fruit juices, energy drinks, sodas, and sports drinks should also be avoided as they can deteriorate the bonding holding the orthodontic expanders in place.
Q: What happens if your child breaks their palatal expanders?
A: If you have a broken or damaged expander, let your orthodontist know immediately so they can help determine the best course of action.
Q: What happens if my child misses a turn on their calendar?
A: If a turn is missed, simply make note to tell your orthodontist at your next appointment. Do not try to make up the turn. Instead, your orthodontist will evaluate your progress and prescribe additional turns if needed.
Q: Can my child play sports during palatal expansion treatment?
A: Absolutely! We will recommend or provide a mouthguard for your child to wear if they wish to participate in contact sports.
Why Choose Greg Brown Orthodontics?
We are committed to providing your family with the highest quality orthodontic treatment available at Greg Brown Orthodontics. From palatal expanders to braces and more, we want your children to achieve sustainable oral health and a beautiful, confident smile.
Are palatal expanders right for your child? Contact Greg Brown Orthodontics today to schedule a consultation and get expert advice customized to your family’s needs.
