Congratulations, your orthodontic treatment has started!

This procedure allows for the creation of more space for the eruption of permanent teeth and correction of the bite.

What Is a Palatal Expander?

A palatal expander is an orthodontic device that fits into the roof of the mouth (the palate). It widens the palate to improve how the upper and lower jaws and
teeth fit together (the bite). The palatal expander is typically worn for 4 to 6 months. During the first few months, the expander is activated (expanded). After
activation is complete, it is left in place for several additional months to hold the expansion. This sheet is provided to give you information on how to activate your expander,
what to expect, and hygiene instructions. If you have any questions or concerns, please call the office.

How to Activate the Expander?

Activation Steps:
  1. You will be given a key to activate the expander.
  2. Place the key into the anterior (front) hole of the appliance, toward the front teeth.
  3. Push the key completely toward the back of the mouth until it stops and the next hole becomes fully visible at the front of the appliance.
  4. Carefully remove the key, ensuring the new hole for the next activation is completely visible
Image

Diet

At first, eating may be more difficult. Take small bites and eat soft foods until this improves, which usually takes a few days to one week. Try to return to a normal diet as soon as possible to help your mouth adapt to the expander faster. If this feels challenging, continue with softer foods temporarily.

After the adjustment period, you should be able to eat almost everything you did before, with the same exceptions as braces. Avoid anything too sticky such as toffies, caramels, gums and stay away from popcorn. 

Hygiene

Brush the appliance, including the metal bars and screw, in the same way you brush your teeth. If you are unable to brush after eating, swish water around your mouth to help dislodge any food particle

What to Expect

Your speech may be affected at first. This is not permanent. The best way to adjust is to speak out loud as much as possible. Reading aloud or singing can help

You may feel pressure or tingling in the mouth, tongue, cheeks, or nose. Your bite may also feel off as it changes. These are all normal feelings, but do not occur in everyone.

A space may develop between your front teeth. While this is a positive sign from a treatment standpoint, it can be concerning cosmetically. By the time you stop
turning the screw, the space may appear large. This space should begin closing on its own within a short period of time.

Potential Trouble and Problems

  • Please turn the appliance only as instructed. Do not continue activating beyond the prescribed schedule. At your next appointment, you will be told whether expansion is complete or needs to continue.
  • The most common issue with a palatal expander is incomplete activation, where the key is not fully seated and the next hole is not visible. You should always see the next hole completely once the key is removed. If this does not occur, call the office so we can correct it.
  • If one of the arms becomes bent or pinches the gum tissue, please call the office for an adjustment.
  • If the palatal expander ever feels loose, the bands should remain cemented and not move on the teeth. Call the office to have the appliance re-cemented.