Genetically, a patient can be born with a small palate. In other cases, a child may lose a few teeth too early and grow up with a smaller palate as a result. Not having enough space for adult teeth in the palate is a common problem and there are several reasons for it. However, if an individual does need an expander, it is important to know that many people need expanders as part of their orthodontic journey.
If patients want to see a braces dentist to ask questions about an expander or any orthodontic treatment, call our office and schedule a consultation. We are happy to walk patients through the process. In general, wearing a palate expander is fairly comfortable once the patient has time to adjust. Patients will need to move a small key once or multiple times a day in order to very slowly push the palate expander outward. In this way, it will apply pressure to slowly create the space the patient needs inside the mouth. The one challenge some people have is adjusting to eating while wearing the expander. Patients have to be careful to avoid things like caramel and we can offer the full list of banned items during the appointment.
Absolutely. As the palate begins to expand, it creates more room in the mouth for all of the teeth. Once we create enough room, the remaining teeth can begin to shift into position. While the teeth will not move precisely as they need to, they will be far closer to their final position. We can improve one's smile for the desired results with a palate expander with a reduced treatment time.
Not really. We bond the expander to the roof of the mouth, so the only way to see it is to look with a mirror. The good news is that no one else will be able to see it, either. Patients can smile away without worrying about it being noticeable. Since wearing one can also decrease how long a patient needs braces for, this is a win-win both in the short- and long-term health.
Give us a call at (941) 676-9225, and we will be happy to assist you. We can answer your questions and help you along the journey to a beautiful new smile.
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