Ideally, bite problems, or malocclusions, are treated during early childhood. During this period, it is easy to manipulate and jaw and bite of a child. A rapid palatal expander is a dental appliance that can be used to correct bite problems. Palatal expanders in Leander are fixed to the palate, which widens the mouth’s roofs gradually to improve its bite alignment.
Benefits of Rapid Palatal Expanders
These dental appliances can correct jaw alignment and structural problems in kids through a minimally invasive procedure. When a rapid palatal expander is used early in children who have a crossbite, it can stimulate bone growth and correct the jaw’s anatomical deficiencies quickly with minimal discomfort. Crossbite correction improves bite function and creates space in the jaw for incoming teeth.
Who Can Get Expanders?
Children should receive an orthodontic evaluation when they reach the age of seven to treat malocclusion problems early. With treatment at an early age, conservative correction is possible. Often, correcting bite issues in adults and teens involves surgical procedures meant to correct the jaw’s positioning. Children who have a crossbite, impacted teeth because of insufficient space for incoming teeth, and those who have excessive tooth crowding due to a narrow plate are good candidates for rapid palatal expanders. Dentists may also recommend treatment for improving the smile and facial aesthetics.
What Happens During Treatment
Before the treatment starts, a dentist will walk the parent and their child through the process and offer resources they can use to understand the required at-home treatments. The procedure involves gluing the expander onto the upper molars of the child, securing it to their teeth.
After the procedure, the dentist will instruct the parent to turn the expander for several days to create a widening force that will shape the child’s expanded upper palate. Activating the expander can be done by inserting a key into its center hole. Once activated, the child will feel pressure for several minutes. After reaching the desired palate width, the child will wear the expander for a few more months to make sure the space made lasts. Typically, the child may wear braces on their adult teeth to close the space made from the expansion process. The child will have a permanent, comfortable bite when their expander is removed.
If your child shows signs of a bite problem, schedule an appointment immediately with a dentist who offers rapid palatal expanders. It is best to treat the problem while your child is young to prevent the need for surgical intervention.
