A palatal expander is a device that expands the palate, which is the structure made of bone and cartilage at the roof of the mouth. It is installed because the palate is too narrow to accommodate a child’s teeth. The device takes advantage of the fact that a child’s palate has two halves that don’t fuse until puberty.
When Is it Required?
There are three main reasons why a child may be fitted with a palate expander. They may have a crossbite, which happens when the jaw is so narrow that the upper molars bite inside the lower molars. Normally, they should bite outside. The child’s teeth could also be too crowded. This can happen even with baby teeth. Again, the palate expander gives the teeth room to grow normally. The third reason that the palate expander is used is when the narrow jaw doesn’t even allow the teeth to erupt because other teeth are blocking it.
How the Palate Expander Works
Palatal expanders are tailored for every patient. They come in two pieces that are fitted over the top molars and joined together by an adjustable screw. To work, the screw is turned just a bit every day, which causes the two plates in the palate to gently move farther apart. When the orthodontist is satisfied that the bones are far enough apart, the expander is left in and bone is allowed to grow into the space between the two plates. Most children wear palatal expanders for between three and six months.
Oral Hygiene
It’s important that the child pay attention to their oral hygiene while they wear the palatal expander. As with braces, food can get stuck in the expander. They should brush at least twice a day, floss at least once a day, and use a water jet to make sure the wires of the device are clean. There’s also a special cleaner the dental hygienist can give the child to make sure debris is pushed out of the wires. There are also special types of flossing implements.
If Your Child Needs a Palate Expander, Call Us
If your child has a cross-bite, teeth that are too crowded, or can’t erupt properly, they may benefit from a palatal expander. Central Texas Orthodontics is conveniently located in Austin, TX. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!
Excellent service and treatment!
by Lisa
Category: orthodontistWe have been seeing Dr. St. Loius at Central Texas Orthodontics for a couple kids now over several years. Everytime we walk in for an appointment, we are greeted warmly and promptly taken back. The office is easy to get to and always runs on time, we have never had to wait to be seen, which is remarkable for a medical/dental office! The payment options were also fair and easy to understand. And the follow up, even after those braces come off, has been stellar! Retainers get lost or chewed up sometimes (ugg!), but a quick text into the office and we were able to drop off the original molds and have new ones made very quickly. Everyone who works at this office truly cares, and you can tell they all enjoy where they work, which is really wonderful to see. I cannot speak highly enough of this office, the staff, the care, and ESPECIALLY the after care and protecting our investment.
Austin’s Best Orthodontics!
by Robin Petmecky
Category: orthodontistDr. St. Louis and his staff are exceptional! Their professional, friendly and caring manner stand out every time I have an appointment. They are always very positive during my visits and make me feel like I’m part of their family. I never have to wait to be seen and I’m usually out in a minimal amount of time. I had my last orthodontic visit recently and they invited me to stop in anytime, just to say hello. I highly recommend Central Texas Orthodontics to anyone needing their services. They are truly the BEST!
FANTASTIC GROUP!
by Melissa Moore Yacono
Category: orthodontistI love this office and the lovely, happy, warm staff!! Every one of the staff is kind and friendly! The vibe of the office is uplifting, relaxing, and Austin-y. Love it. The plants make it pleasant. Everything is so clean! What a refreshing visit and thank you so much for the stellar customer service.
Simply the Best!
by Christine Laux
Category: orthodontistDr. B. and his team are fantastic: Everyone just truly cares! They are knowledgeable and super helpful, always happy to consult. I recommend CTO not only for children and teens, but for adults as well! My two teenage daughters got their braces and I got my Invisalign. Dr. B. took his time to go over all our treatment plans and make adjustments. The communication is seamless and very responsive. All team members are wonderful - my special shoutout goes to Beatrice and Christen though: Those two lovely ladies go above and beyond with everything they do! Thanks to y’alls fabulous care our teeth are all straight now!
Awesome Experience
by Norma Constancio
Category: orthodontistDr. St. Louis and his staff were wonderful! From their friendly staff, nice office environment and Dr. St. Louis always willing to answer my questions. I would 100% recommend Central Texas Orthodontics to anyone.
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