We protect your child's future oral health with timely intervention. We use a proactive approach called early treatment for children as young as 6 or 7. The jaw grows rapidly at this age. This specific window allows us to address crowded teeth or bite alignment issues while the bones develop. We use specialized tools like palatal expanders to guide this growth effectively. You can view our orthodontics overview to learn how we support our youngest patients.
How Palatal Expanders Work
We use a palatal expander to widen the upper jaw gently. This process creates the necessary space for permanent teeth to erupt. The widening process is safe and common. The upper jaw consists of two halves that do not fuse until after puberty. We guide these bones apart slowly before they settle.
We craft each expander to fit your child's mouth perfectly. The device sits over a few back teeth and features a small screw in the center. You will use a special key to turn the screw a tiny amount each day. This creates light pressure to enable the jaw to widen. Your child wears the device for a few months after we reach the correct width. This step allows new bone to fill the gap and makes the change permanent. Most children wear an expander for 3 to 6 months.
Comfort and Adjustments
Parents often ask about comfort. Your child may feel slight pressure for a few minutes after you turn the key. Most children find this more comfortable than having braces adjusted. Speaking and eating may feel different for a few days while the tongue adapts. You might see a small gap develop between the front teeth. This sign confirms the device is working. We guide you through these changes so you know exactly what to expect.
Palatal Expander Care and Hygiene
Cleanliness matters during this process. We will show your child how to brush the expander carefully. A fluoride rinse can provide extra protection against decay. Our FAQ page offers helpful tips on daily habits. Consistent care helps ensure the treatment stays on track.
Expander Treatment Benefits
We provide this treatment to help your child reach several health goals.
- Create Space: We reduce tooth crowding by making enough room for all upper teeth.
- Improve Breathing: A wider jaw makes it easier for a child to breathe through their nose.
- Save Teeth: Widening the jaw can enable trapped teeth to grow into the right spot.
- Fix Bites: We ensure the upper teeth fit over the lower teeth to prevent uneven jaw growth.
- Shorten Care: Correcting these issues now often means your child spends less time in treatment later.
Palatal Expanders Reviews
Dr. Mack and his entire team are absolutely incredible! My son got his expander earlier this year and recently just got his braces. From the first consultation, Dr. Mack has been wonderful to work with - he is always so kind and informs us of what the next steps are so we know what to expect. He even checked in on my son the day after he got his braces to make sure he was doing well! Everyone in the office is so pleasant to work with. Mack Orthodontics is hands down the best ortho office in the QC!
What an amazing place all around. Dr Mack and his team are the best, hands down. My son's regular doctor recommended me over to Dr Mack and I'm so glad she did. My son had a tooth that was stuck straight forward in his gums and he needed it surgically opened to start pulling it down. I got the run around and came across a Dr that told me it'll die, just pull it. Dr Mack said, absolutely not! My son has an expander, top braces, and a healthy tooth being pulled down! I can't thank him and his staff enough. They are truly heaven sent. If you're searching for the best orthodontist, Dr. Mack and his team are it. He will never steer you wrong. All blessing to them. ❤️
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Visit Us
We invite you to visit us in Eldridge or Bettendorf to see if an expander suits your child. Our team will tailor a plan to inspire a healthy and confident smile. You can read testimonials from other families who trust us with their care.
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