Crowded teeth or bite misalignment can happen when the upper jaw is too narrow to give your teeth the space they need. While that may sound like a problem only surgery can solve, orthodontists often have a much simpler solution: the palate expander.
At Ohana Orthodontics, we use palate expanders as one of many tools to support healthy bite development and create confident, beautiful smiles. These appliances help us make space for your teeth, often without the need for surgery or extractions. But what exactly is a palate expander, and how does it work? Let’s walk through the basics.
What Is a Palate Expander?
A palate expander is a special orthodontic appliance that gently widens the upper jaw. It is often used before braces or aligners to create enough space for teeth to align properly.
In the past, orthodontists sometimes needed to remove teeth (usually premolars) to make space. Today, with tools like expanders, many patients can keep all of their teeth and still achieve excellent alignment.
The palate expander works by applying gentle pressure to both sides of the upper jaw. This stimulates the center seam of the palate, called the mid-palatal suture, to widen gradually. As it expands, new bone fills in the space, making the results permanent and setting the foundation for a straight, healthy smile.
Types of Palate Expanders
There are several types of expanders, and the best one depends on your age, bite, and the amount of expansion required.
- Removable Palate Expander
Works similarly to a retainer and is used in mild cases that require only small adjustments. - Rapid Palate Expander (RPE)
This is the most commonly used type. It fits across the roof of the mouth and uses a key to widen the upper jaw gradually. Bands around the molars help apply pressure. - Surgically Assisted Rapid Palate Expander (SARPE)
Used when the palate has fully fused, usually in adults. It includes a surgical procedure that allows for expansion in cases where more movement is needed. - Implant-Supported Palate Expander (ISPE)
Also known as Maxillary Skeletal Expansion (MSE) or Miniscrew-Assisted Rapid Palatal Expander (MARPE), this device utilizes small implants instead of bands on the teeth. It is most often used for older teens or adults with more complex orthodontic needs.
How Long Will I Wear a Palate Expander?
If we recommend a palate expander, we will determine the duration it needs to remain in place based on your individual needs. This depends on your jaw development, age, and how your body responds to treatment. On average, expanders are worn for 6 to 12 months.
Children and preteens typically respond more quickly, since their palatal bones are still developing. Expansion in adults is still possible, but it can take longer due to the palate being more fully formed.
This step in treatment typically occurs before the placement of braces or Invisalign. If expansion is part of a two-phase plan, a gap may occur between Phase 1 and Phase 2 as we wait for natural growth to take place.
Do Palate Expanders Hurt?
We understand that hearing how a palate expander works might make it sound uncomfortable. In reality, most patients adjust quickly and feel only mild discomfort during the first few days or after occasional adjustments.
You might feel some pressure as your jaw adapts, especially during the first week. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage this short-term soreness. After the initial adjustment period, the expander usually feels like a normal part of your routine.
If discomfort persists for more than a week or worsens, we encourage you to contact our office. We are always here to ensure your treatment is comfortable and progressing in the right direction.
What Happens After the Palate Expander?
Once the jaw has widened enough to support your teeth, we will remove the expander. In some mild cases, expansion alone may be enough to improve alignment. For most patients, the next step is braces or Invisalign.
You will not start braces on the same day your expander is removed. If your treatment includes two phases, we may wait up to two to four years before starting the second phase. This often happens between the ages of 11 and 13, once growth has progressed and the palate has fully stabilized.
Braces or Invisalign will then complete the process, guiding the teeth into their final positions.
Palate Expanders in Canby, OR
Palate expanders are one of the many ways we help patients achieve lasting, healthy smiles at Ohana Orthodontics. They are especially helpful for younger patients with developing jaws and can often prevent the need for tooth removal or surgery later on.
If you think you or your child may benefit from a palate expander, we are here to help. Schedule a consultation with Ohana Orthodontics to learn more about your options and take the first step toward a confident smile.
