Palatal Expansion Minnetonka, MN
Sometimes, children develop a narrow upper jaw. This can be due to genetics, oral habits such as thumb sucking, or from improper breathing techniques. Unfortunately, narrowed jaws can lead to dental and airway problems down the road. Children may develop crowded, crooked, or impacted teeth. They might experience bite problems such as crossbites and underbites which can even cause asymmetric growth. A palate expander may help treat or prevent these issues. Palatal expansion uses a dental appliance to widen the upper jaw gently.
Palatal expansion is available at Anchored Orthodontics in Minnetonka and the surrounding area. Dr. McMahon often utilizes palate expanders to adjust the size and shape of your child's jaw. We offer a range of orthodontic services, including braces and permanent appliances. Call us at (612) 200-0020 to learn more.
Palate Expansion and Oral Health
A child's upper jaw develops as two separate halves. During puberty, these halves fuse — making it important to visit an orthodontist during childhood. Younger patients can receive noninvasive treatments for their jaw problems. But if parents wait too long, surgery may be the only option.
During an orthodontic assessment, the team measures the child's jaws. Sometimes, the orthodontist may decide that the upper jaw is too narrow. A narrow upper jaw can lead to bite problems and crowding. Without treatment, the child's permanent teeth may become crooked. In some cases, the child may need an extraction.
Palate expanders can help a child avoid dental problems in adulthood. Expanders gently widen the upper jaw, creating more room for adult teeth. A wider jaw may repair some bite problems. It can also broaden a child's smile. Expanders may shorten orthodontic treatment time or eliminate the need for further orthodontics.
“Expanders gently widen the upper jaw, creating more room for adult teeth.”
How Expanders Work
At Anchored Orthodontics all of our expanders are custom made and 3D printed to perfectly fit your child’s mouth. We will take an iTero scan and our lab will have the expander fabricated within a week! We do not take any goopy impression or even have to fit separators thanks to the awesome technology we use. When you come in for the delivery appointment it just takes a few minutes to glue it to the back teeth. Then we will go over instructions and teach the parents how to turn it!
“At Anchored Orthodontics all of our expanders are custom made and 3D printed to perfectly fit your child’s mouth.”
Receiving a Palate Expander
Each expander is equipped with a center screw. Once the expander is fixed in place, patients receive a key. Each day, patients turn the screw to widen the expander. The expander pushes against the jawbones and widens the child's upper jaw. Once the proper amount of expansion is achieved, we will hold the expansion and the bone will stabilize.
“The expander pushes against the jawbones and widens the child’s upper jaw.”
Check out what others are saying about our orthodontic services on Yelp: Palatal Expansion in Minnetonka, MN
Types of Expanders
Removable palate expanders are a popular option. Many families prepare to take the appliance out for eating and cleaning. But removable expanders may not be the right choice for some patients. Removable appliances work well for patients who need small adjustments. If a child's jaw needs significant changes, a fixed appliance may be better.
Several types of fixed appliances are available. Each appliance works in a similar way. First, the expander is attached to the back molars. Parents or patients make regular adjustments with a key. The orthodontist performs regular checkups to make sure treatment is progressing as planned.
“If your child’s jaw needs significant changes, a fixed appliance may be better.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. How do palate expanders improve my child's oral health?
Q. How do palate expanders work?
Q. What happens during palate expander treatment?
Q. What types of palate expanders are available?
Q. How do I keep the palate expander clean?
People Also Ask
Q. What are crossbites and open bites?
Cleaning Regimen for Expanders
After your child receives their expander, the team explains how to keep the appliance clean. Oral hygiene is essential for patients who have an expander. Plaque can build up around the appliance. Over time, plaque buildup may lead to gum disease or other dental problems. Parents should plan to supervise daily brushing and flossing.
Children with removable expanders can take it out to brush and floss. Children with fixed appliances can brush and floss around the expander. Sometimes, it can be tricky to keep a fixed appliance clean. A mouth wash can help sweep away debris from hard-to-reach areas.
Patients should avoid chewy, sticky, or hard foods. Cut up foods like apples and carrots into small pieces. Avoid sticky foods like taffy or caramel. Sticky foods can damage the appliance or get stuck in small crevices.
“Sticky foods can damage the appliance or get stuck in small crevices.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Will my child need braces after their expander?
A. After palate expansion, your child may need braces or other appliances. Patients who receive an expander may enjoy a shorter treatment time. Expanders can reduce the amount of time a child needs to spend in braces. Our team can explain the next step in treatment.
Q. How can I determine if my child needs an expander?
A. During a checkup, the orthodontist looks for signs of crowding or impacted teeth. They also check the patient's bite and jaw alignment. If the orthodontist spots a problem, they may recommend an expander. Our team can provide more details about your child's prognosis and treatment options.
Q. How long will my child need to wear their expander?
A. Treatment times can vary. Most children wear their expander for up to six months. Occasionally, the orthodontist may recommend keeping the appliance in place for up to a year. Parents and patients are often eager to finish palate expansions. But early removal may cause a relapse. It is important to follow up with the orthodontist's prescribed treatment plan.
Q. What alternate treatments are available?
A. Palate expansion is a good option for many young patients. But other treatments may also help widen your child's jaw. Some children might be eligible for braces, retainers, or headgear. If your child's jawbone has already fused, a palate expander will not work well. They might need braces, clear aligners, or jaw surgery. The team can help you review your options.
Q. At what age will my child receive their expander?
A. Palate expansion treatment provides optimal results when used at a young age. Around age 14-16, the upper jaw fuses. Palate expanders do not work well on older patients. Most children receive their expander around age 7-8. Our orthodontic team can let you know when your child is ready for treatment.
Quality Orthodontic Services Can Transform Smiles
By visiting us as soon as possible, our team can help get you the professional treatment you need.
Scan here to view this page, Palatal Expansion, on mobile
Definition of Orthodontic Terminology
Call Us Today
Palate expansion help ensures that your child's jaw develops into the proper shape. These appliances can reduce crowding and shift teeth into the correct position. Additionally, an expander may also fix bite problems and speech difficulties. Our orthodontic team can help you choose an expander that meets your child's needs.
If you are ready to discuss palatal expansion for your child, let Anchored Orthodontics in Minnetonka help. Call us at 612-200-0020 to learn more about our services.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Terms. 2021
About our business, license, and website security
- Anchored Orthodontics was established in 2023.
- We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa
- We serve patients from the following counties: Hennepin County and Carver County
- We serve patients from the following cities: Minnetonka, Excelsior, Wayzata, Eden Prairie, Hopkins, St. Louis Park, Chanhassen, Chaska, Deephaven, Plymouth, Mound, Orono and Edina
- MN (License #D13664). View License Information and Specifics
- National Provider Identifier Database (1538617303). View NPI Registry Information
- Norton Safe Web. View Details
- Trend Micro Site Safety Center. View Details
Scan here to open directions to Anchored Orthodontics on mobile
Back to top of Palatal Expansion
Related Posts
3 Questions To Ask Your Orthodontist About Braces
For some people, the thought of orthodontic treatment, such as braces and clear aligners, may seem daunting. However, our team will walk you through the entire process to ensure you comprehend and are comfortable with your treatment plan. The first step in achieving this is the initial consultation with our orthodontist, where you can ask as…
5 Questions To Ask Your Orthodontist About Invisalign
Invisalign is one of the most popular ways to straighten teeth and fix bite concerns. The brand of clear aligners has grown in popularity over the years, as more people have realized how simple the treatment process is. Through the use of Invisalign, patients can improve their smile, oral health, and general confidence in their appearance.…
Am I A Candidate For Clear Aligners?
Clear aligners are a great way to straighten your smile without making it known to everyone that you are doing so.Unfortunately, however, not everyone is an ideal candidate for clear aligners, and it is helpful to know when clear aligners are the best option over alternative teeth straightening options.Clear aligners help many each year achieve…
Explore additional topics covered on our website:
Call Us Today
Scan here to call Anchored Orthodontics on mobile
