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Palatal expander

A palatal expander is a removable or fixed (cemented) appliance which will enlarge your upper arch. It’s usually worn for about 9 months. Orthodontic treatment that includes this appliance is divided into two phases:

  1. The first phase, called the active phase, will last for about 3 months. During this phase, you or someone in your family will be required to activate your appliance with a special key. You should expect to feel some pressure on your teeth during this period. Pain relievers, such as Advil or Tylenol, taken as directed, will ease this discomfort. During this phase, you will notice the formation of a space between your upper front teeth. Don’t worry, this is completely normal.
  2. The second phase, called the retention phase, will last for about 6 months. During this period your body will build new bone to close the open space in the roof of your mouth.

It’s extremely important to follow these instructions if you want to achieve the best results:

  • Turn the key as prescribed by the orthodontist. It’s recommended that the key is turned at the same time each day, with the expectation that the same period of time elapses between each turn or set of turns.
  • If you miss a day, please don’t compensate by doubling the number of turns the following day. Just continue as prescribed.
  • If pain occurs and persists around the nose and jaw joint areas, undo one turn by turning the key the opposite way. Do the turn on the following day instead. Please call us if the pain reappears.
  • In order to prevent your appliance from ungluing, avoid gummy foods such as bubble gum, jujubes, and toffee. Do not bite down on hard foods such as whole almonds, hard candies, ice cubes and the like. Call us immediately if it feels like your appliance has loosened. We will schedule an appointment to see you as soon as possible in order to re-glue it.
  • Remember to brush your bands and the middle screw properly.
  • Use a mouthwash to remove any food trapped between your appliance and the roof of your mouth.

N.B.: There will be a fee to replace a lost, or broken appliance, in the case of a removable expander.