Your Palatal Expander

What is a Palatal Expander?
An expansion appliance is a device used to widen the upper arch, or roof of the mouth.

We use two types of expansion appliances: rapid palatal expander, which is not removable, and an expansion retainer, which is. The kind of expander you use depends on your age and the amount of expansion necessary.

The amount and rate of expansion is different for every patient. Dr. Dickerson will inform you of how many times you will need to widen the expansion screw. Following the active phase of expansion, the appliance should remain in place for a while longer, until new bone generates in the expanded arch.

Why Do I Need to Wear a Palatal Expander?
Widening the mouth’s palate allows your upper and lower teeth to line up properly, giving you a better bite. Additionally, just as a high palate and a narrow arch restrict your breathing passages, widening the palate, in turn, widens the air passages, enabling you to breathe more easily through the nose.

The expanding action gently separates the elastic membrane in the center of the palate. Once the palate has been expanded fully, new bone tissue fills in the space. You’ll notice that widening the arches also temporarily causes a space between your two front teeth. Do not be alarmed. The space closes again naturally.

Will My Palatal Expander Hurt?
Although your expander may cause some initial discomfort, such as a feeling of pressure, or a tingling under the appliance or at the bridge of the nose, these symptoms are temporary. Advil should effectively relieve your discomfort. If it does not, call our office so that we can check your appliance carefully.

How Do I Use My Palatal Expander?
We will provide you with explicit instructions regarding the activation of your palatal expander. You must regularly activate the appliance according to the schedule and instructions given by our staff. Do not rush or delay the activation of the appliance.

How Do I Care for My Palatal Expander?
Clean the appliance carefully each time you brush your teeth. This and mouthwash will keep the appliance free of food and prevent irritation.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your palatal expanders, please contact Dr. Dickerson’s office at 480-963-2535 (Chandler office), 480-558-4312 (Gilbert office), 623-376-6346 (Arrowhead office) or by e-mail at info@dickersonortho.com.