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.
What to Expect During Palatal Expander Treatment
The team at Bridgeport Family Dental Care can guide you and your child through every step:
- Custom fitting – We take digital scans or impressions to create a comfortable fit
- Placement – The device gently attaches to upper molars
- Activation – You’ll turn a small key (as instructed) to gradually widen the expander over a few weeks
- Stabilization – Once the desired width is reached, the expander stays in place for a few months to allow bone growth and stability
There is little to no pain, just a feeling of pressure during activation, and most children adjust quickly to speaking and eating with the appliance in place.
