Are you or your child in need of palatal expansion treatment, but are overwhelmed by the various types of expanders available? You’re not alone! Palatal expanders come in different shapes, sizes and materials to suit different patients’ needs. Understanding the differences between them can help you make an informed decision about which type is best for your specific case. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the various types of palatal expanders available and how they work to correct dental issues. So, let’s dive in together and broaden our knowledge on this important topic!
What is a Palatal Expander?
A palatal expander is a device that is used to help expand the upper jaw. This can be done through the use of removable appliances or by surgically implanting devices. Expanders are often used in children who have narrow palates or crossbites. By widening the palate, the expander creates more space for the teeth and jaws to grow properly. This can improve chewing function and prevent dental problems later on in life.
There are two main types of palatal expanders: rapid palatal expanders (RPEs) and slow palatal expanders (SPEs). RPEs are also sometimes called “starburst” expanders because of their star-shaped design. These devices are typically made of metal and plastic and they work by slowly separating the bones of the palate using screws or hinges. SPEs, on the other hand, are made of acrylic and they work by gradually stretching the palate with a spring-like action.
Both types of expanders are effective at correcting dental problems but they have different advantages and disadvantages. RPEs tend to be more uncomfortable because they cause pressure on the teeth and jaws. They also require more frequent adjustments than SPEs. On the plus side, RPEs usually work faster than SPEs and they can be removed once they’ve done their job. SPEs, on the other hand, are less likely to cause discomfort because they don’t put pressure on the teeth
Types of Palatal Expanders
There are three main types of palatal expanders available on the market today: fixed, removable, and hyrax. Each type has its own set of advantages and disadvantages that you should take into account when making your decision.
Fixed expanders are permanently cemented in place by your orthodontist and can only be removed by them. This makes them the most stable option, but also the most expensive and intrusive. Removable expanders are held in place with a wire or clip and can be taken out by the patient for cleaning. They are less expensive than fixed expanders but can be less effective as well. Hyrax expanders are similar to removable expanders but use screws to hold them in place. They offer a good compromise between price and effectiveness.
Why Do You Need a Palatal Expander?
A palatal expander is an important tool for orthodontic treatment. It is used to widen the upper jaw so that the teeth can be aligned properly. There are different types of expanders available, and the type that is right for you will depend on your specific needs.
The most common type of expander is the rapid palatal expander (RPE). This type of expander is placed on the roof of the mouth and is held in place with a metal screw. The screw is turned gradually, which widens the space between the two halves of the palate. RPEs are usually left in place for about six months.
Another type of palatal expander is the removable expansion appliance (REA). This type of appliance can be removed for cleaning and eating, but must be replaced after each meal. REAs are often used for children who cannot tolerate an RPE.
No matter which type of palatal expander you use, it is important to follow your orthodontist’s instructions carefully to ensure that your treatment is successful.
How Does a Palatal Expander Work?
There are two main types of palatal expanders: the rapid palatal expander (RPE) and the hyrax. Both work by applying pressure to the bones in the palate, gradually widening the arch of the palate.
The RPE is activated by a key that is turned twice a day. As the key is turned, it applies pressure to the suture in the palate, gradually separating the bones and widening the palate. This type of expander is typically used for younger patients, as they have more pliable bones and can respond more quickly to treatment.
The hyrax is a fixed appliance that is bonded to the teeth on either side of the palate. It consists of an upper and lower appliance that is connected by screws or springs. As these screws or springs are tightened, they apply pressure to the bones in the palate, gradually widening the arch. The hyrax is typically used for older patients or for those who have had prior orthodontic treatment, as their bones may be less responsive to treatment with an RPE.
Pros and Cons of Different Types of Palatal Expanders
There are three main types of palatal expanders available on the market: rapid, bonded, and removable. Each type has its own set of pros and cons that you should consider before choosing one for your child.
Rapid palatal expanders are the most invasive type of expander and work by slowly separating the bones in the palate. This type of expander is usually only used in severe cases where other methods have failed. The main advantage of a rapid expander is that it is very effective in expanding the palate. However, the downside is that it can be quite uncomfortable for your child and may require a short hospital stay for monitoring.
Bonded palatal expanders are less invasive than rapid expanders and work by gradually widening the space between the teeth. This type of expander is a good option for children who are not candidates for rapid expansion or who cannot tolerate the discomfort associated with it. The main advantage of bonded expansion is that it is much less intrusive than rapid expansion and can be done in stages to minimize discomfort. However, the downside is that bonded expanders can be more difficult to clean around and may need to be replaced more often than removable expanders.
Removable palatal expanders are the least invasive type of expander and work by gently widening the space between the teeth using a series of rubber bands. This type of expander is a good option for children who cannot tolerate other types of expansion or who only need a small amount
How to Choose the Right Palatal Expander for Your Needs
If you or your child have been diagnosed with a narrow palate, your orthodontist may recommend using a palatal expander to widen the roof of the mouth. But with so many different types of expanders available, how do you know which one is right for your needs?
Here are some things to consider when choosing a palatal expander:
- The severity of the palate problem. If you have a mild case of palate constriction, a simple rapid palatal expander may be all that’s needed. But if the constriction is more severe, you may need a more aggressive treatment like an expansion appliance or a surgically implanted expander.
- The age of the patient. Rapid palatal expanders are typically used in children, while expansion appliances and surgical expanders are better suited for adults.
- The length of time needed to achieve results. Rapid palatal expanders work quickly, often achieving results in just a few weeks. Expansion appliances and surgical expanders take longer to produce results, but they are usually more permanent.
Care and Maintenance Tips for Your Palatal Expander
Your palatal expander is a vital part of your orthodontic treatment, so it’s important to take care of it! Here are some tips on how to care for your expander:
- Brush your teeth thoroughly after each meal and before going to bed. Be sure to brush around the expander as well as your other teeth.
- Floss daily. It’s especially important to floss around the expander. You can use a floss threader to help you get the floss under the expanders wires.
- Rinse with mouthwash daily. This will help keep your mouth clean and free of bacteria.
- Avoid hard and sticky foods. Hard foods can damage the wires or brackets, and sticky foods can get stuck in them and cause cavities.
- Keep up with your regular appointments with your orthodontist. They will check to make sure the expander is working properly and make any necessary adjustments.
Conclusion
Palatal expanders are an effective yet gentle way to correct issues such as crossbites, narrow arches and other abnormalities in the dental arch. The type of palatal expander that is right for you will depend on your individual needs, so it’s important to visit a qualified dentist who can help guide you through the process. With proper care and maintenance, your new device should last for many years while providing much-needed relief from any discomfort or pain associated with these issues.
FAQs
Which type of palatal expander is best for me?
The answer to this question depends on several factors, including the severity of your child’s condition, their age, and the preference of your orthodontist.
How does a palatal expander work?
A palatal expander is an appliance that is used to gradually widen the upper jaw. By placing gentle pressure on the teeth and bones of the palate (roof of the mouth), the expander creates new space in the mouth, which leads to straighter teeth and a healthier bite.
How long will my child need to wear a palatal expander?
Again, this depends on each individual case. In general, however, most expanders are worn for around 6-12 months.
Are there any risks associated with palatal expanders?
As with any medical procedure, there are always some risks involved. The most common complication associated with palatal expanders is mild discomfort or soreness in the mouth, which can be alleviated with over-the-counter pain medication. In rare cases, more serious complications can occur, such as root resorption (wherein the roots of the teeth are slowly absorbed by the body) or damage to surrounding teeth. However, these complications are very rare and can usually be avoided by following your orthodontist’s instructions carefully.
