What is a Palate Expander?
Growing into adulthood some share stories of the orthodontic treatment that was given to them in their earlier years. With this, may spring the stories of a “palate expander.” You either know what this is because you have personally experienced life with a palate expander or you may have no idea what this is. A “palate expander” is an appliance used by a dental professional to widen the palate, the roof of the mouth.
Why should my child get a palate expander?
Reasons for a palate expander may be to correct three possible scenarios.
Crossbite— For when a child’s upper jaw, palate is too narrow to create a normal bite with the lower jaw
Overcrowding in the mouth—A professional is able to tell before all of a child’s permanent teeth have grown in if there will be enough space for them in the mouth
Difficulty breathing ability in a patient— For children that may have a more narrow or deep jaw it can be difficult to breath properly
Deciding what is right for your child and when
If your child seems to suffer from a crossbite, overcrowding or difficulty breathing it is important to note that these scenarios can be corrected by expanding the upper jaw with a palate expander.
The status of your child’s upper jaw directly determines the placement time of a palate expander. However, upper jaw expansion is most successful in younger children and young teens. Crossbite expansion is preferred to treat patients from five years old and below.
Contact Us
If you have concerns for your child and feel that they may have an abnormal bite, overcrowding in the mouth or difficulty breathing, please contact us at Costa Family & Cosmetic Dentistry. We are located in Ashburn, Virginia and Great Falls, Virginia areas.
Our staff is dedicated to finding the best solution for you and your needs. We will take time with you to examine the dental situation, consult a treatment plan and help you choose the best treatment plan. Each one of us at Costa Family & Cosmetic Dentistry look forward to consulting with you. We also offer Invisalign at our Great Falls, VA location.