What Is a Palatal Expander?
A palatal expander is a small orthodontic device that can correct bite issues and make room for permanent teeth to come in properly by widening the jaw.
Palatal expanders are most effective between ages 6 and 10, while the bones in the upper jaw are still developing and easier to guide. By expanding the palate gently over time, we can help prevent more complicated orthodontic issues later on. This can also help to cut down on time in orthodontics later in life.
Expanders are used to:
- Create space for crowded or overlapping teeth
- Correct crossbites
- Help adult teeth erupt in a healthy position
- Support balanced facial and jaw development
Why Start Early?
During the early years of development, your child’s upper jaw is not yet fused. This makes it possible to guide the jaw’s growth safely and painlessly using a palatal expander. By addressing jaw width early on:
- We can often reduce or avoid the need for extractions later
- Braces become simpler and shorter in time in the future
- It supports better breathing and facial symmetry
Palatal expanders are usually worn for a few months and are custom-made for your child’s mouth. The process is simple, safe, and closely monitored by our team.
