An orthodontic expanders is an appliance that gradually expands a child's jaw and palate, giving space for their adult teeth to erupt normally or to rectify jaw misalignment issues. Each orthodontic expander is specially designed to fit a child's natural palate.

In early orthodontic treatment, it's common to recommend a orthodontic expanders when your child requires expansion of their upper jaw. Your orthodontist may recommend either a removable or fixed expander, consisting of two halves joined by a small screw, based on your child's orthodontic needs.

American Association of Orthodontist

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children be taken for an initial orthodontic visit at the age of seven. By the age of seven, youngsters generally possess some of their adult teeth, and the formation of their bite is starting to take shape. A certified orthodontist can now identify any potential orthodontic problems and determine if your child would be a good candidate for early orthodontic treatment, such as an expander.

An orthodontic expanders gradually applies pressure to the space in your child’s mouth over a period of 3-12 months. The device is secured to the upper jaw near the palate using wires that encircle the molars. Here, we will outline the explanation of how it works.

Palatal Orthodontic Expander

Frequently, the initial query from parents is how to secure an expander. To activate the palatal expander, you use a special key to turn the small screw in its center daily. Activating the screw causes the orthodontic expanders to move outward in small increments, a distance of less than one millimeter per day.

It's interesting to note that a child's upper jaw develops from two separate halves, one on the right side and one on the left. The two maxillary bones do not fuse until approximately or after the onset of puberty. A palatal expander is primarily designed to widen the two sides separately.

Once your orthodontist confirms that your child's jaw has achieved the correct degree of widening, the orthodontic expanders will remain in place for a few more months to permit the formation of new bone in the gap and solidify the expansion.