Palate expander
maxillary expander · palatal expansion appliance · upper jaw expander
This is an appliance with a screw that is fitted to the upper teeth. It is turned a little at a time, and the upper jaw becomes wider.
When the upper jaw is narrow, the teeth do not have enough room, or there is a crossbite.
⏱ Duration: fitting usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, and it is usually worn for several months
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Mood. Explain to your child that the appliance will be felt in the mouth, but they get used to it.
- Food. The day before and on the day of fitting, prepare soft food.
What to bring
- Your ID
- Scans, if you had them
- Soft food for the first days at home
How it goes
- The doctor takes impressions or scans the teeth
- The appliance is made from the impression
- At the next visit it is fixed on the teeth
- The doctor shows how to turn the screw with a key
- Sets how often to turn it and when to come back
What you'll feel
- Pressure in the teeth and palate after turning
- In the first days it is hard to talk and swallow
- A gap may appear between the front teeth - this is how it should be
Afterwards
- Turn the screw exactly as your doctor said
- Soft food for the first days, nothing hard or sticky
- Brush your teeth and the appliance well
- Come to check-ups on the set days
Contact a doctor straight away if
- The appliance came loose or broke
- Severe pain or sores on the palate
Common questions
Why is there a gap between the teeth?
It is a sign that the jaw is widening. Later the gap usually closes by itself or with the doctor's help.
Can I skip a turn?
Do not change the schedule yourself. If you missed one, tell your doctor.