Palatal Expanders

What Is a Palatal Expander?
A palatal expander is an appliance used to widen a narrow upper jaw. It may be supported by teeth, miniscrews, or a combination, depending on the patient’s development and treatment needs. Expansion can help correct certain crossbites and improve arch width, with the method chosen according to skeletal maturity.

What Is It Used For?
Palatal expanders help correct a narrow upper jaw and certain crossbites. They may also create space for teeth and improve how the upper and lower dental arches fit together.

How Does It Work?
The appliance applies controlled outward pressure through a prescribed activation process. Its design determines how this pressure is transferred to the teeth and supporting bone. The activation schedule and amount of expansion are planned individually.

What Can Patients Expect?
Temporary pressure, extra saliva, and changes in speech may occur initially. A gap may appear between the upper front teeth during expansion. The appliance usually stays in place for a period after active widening to help stabilise the result.

Care & Instructions
Activate the appliance only as demonstrated and follow your individual schedule. Clean carefully around its attachments and avoid hard or sticky foods. Contact the clinic if it becomes loose, is difficult to activate, or causes persistent pain.