Orthodontic treatment is best performed during childhood, as it makes it possible to make the most out of the natural growth and development phase. It helps treat or prevent malocclusions as the child grows. Palatal expanders are devices designed to help with such treatment. At Harris Orthodontics, we provide palatal expanders for patients who need treatment for their upper jaw. Dr. Peyton Harris will create a custom treatment plan for your child’s condition.
How Do Palatal Expanders Help?
Palatal expanders work by creating more space in your child’s mouth. These devices gradually widen the upper jaw. Upper jaw development takes place as two separate halves. These two separate halves begin the process of fusing together around puberty. The palatal expander device helps to gradually and gently separate, then stabilize the two halves over many months.
When to Seek Maxillary Expansion Treatment?
Your child may need palatal expanders if they have the following dental problems:
- Crossbite: Expanding the upper jaw can help correct crossbites.
- Teeth Crowding: Dr. Harris will examine and determine whether there will be enough space for accommodating the erupting adult teeth. In some cases, it is possible to use palatal expanders to widen the upper jaw and create the required space without performing tooth extractions.
- Impacted Teeth: Sometimes, a tooth that cannot erupt may be blocked by existing teeth. This problem often occurs with “eye teeth” or canine teeth. We can consider widening the upper jaw to enable the eruption in the proper space and position.
The use of palatal expanders can also help shorten the duration of orthodontic treatment in children and teens, often reducing the amount of time they may have to wear their braces.
Usually, palatal expanders are meant to assist children with the proper development of their mouths. However, their applications are not just limited to children. Dr. Harris can consider various factors to determine whether an older individual can benefit from these devices. Upper jaw expansion has other benefits too. It can help broaden your smile, enhance your appearance, and reduce the number of teeth that need removal for creating space. The procedure may also be used to improve breathing in some cases.
