At Smile City Orthodontics in Sunnyvale TX, a smiling man, woman, and young girl with a palatal expander sit closely on a couch as the child places her hands on their faces.

Palatal Expander in Sunnyvale TX

At Smile City Orthodontics in Sunnyvale TX, a dentist and assistant explain a Palatal Expander to a female patient seated in the dental chair.

What is a Palatal Expander?

At Smile City Orthodontics in Sunnyvale, Dr. Jacob provides expert care with palatal expanders, a modern orthodontic solution. A palatal expander, often called a rapid palatal expander (RPE), is a custom-made orthodontic appliance. It gradually widens the upper jaw to create more space for proper alignment of teeth and to improve bite function.

Types and Mechanism of Palatal Expanders

Our clinic offers different types of palatal expanders, each designed for specific needs.

Rapid Palatal Expander (RPE)

Ideal for children, this traditional device attaches to molars and uses a screw to make small, accurate adjustments. It’s most effective when used before the palatal suture fuses, so early treatment is essential.

Bone-Borne Expanders

Using advanced miniscrew technology, these expanders are a great option for patients with unique dental needs, like cleft palates. They work well for adults and older teenagers needing dental corrections.

Miniscrew-Assisted RPE (MARPE)

This is a great choice for older teens and adults. It uses small implants to make changes to the bone with less movement of the teeth.

The Process of Impression or Scan and Placement of Separators

We use the latest technology to ensure your experience is comfortable and stress-free.

Impression and Digital Scan

Instead of traditional methods, we use advanced digital scans to make impressions of your teeth more precise and convenient. This creates highly accurate, custom-made expanders.

Placement of Spacers or Separators

Before getting your expander placed, we may add small separators to make space between teeth if needed. This gentle process ensures the best results with minimal discomfort. Some types of expanders may not require this step.

Advantages of 3D Printed Appliances and Digital Scans

We use modern technology to make expanders that fit perfectly, reduce the need for adjustments, and feel more comfortable for every patient.

Digital Workflow in Palatal Expander Fabrication

By using advanced digital workflows, we create virtual models of your teeth to ensure the palatal expander is uniquely designed to fit your dental structure accurately.

Effectiveness and Outcomes

Treatment for narrowing of the upper jaw has shown positive effects, especially in creating bone changes during growth periods. Expanding the palate can also help with nasal breathing, which benefits patients with mouth-breathing habits.

Palate Expanders, Airway Improvement, Snoring and Sleep Apnea

In addition to aligning teeth, palatal expanders can improve breathing and sleep. Many patients have reported reduced snoring and better sleep quality after using a palatal expander.

Impact on Speech and Comfort

While it may take a short transition period, most patients quickly get used to their palatal expanders. Our team is here to guide and support you through every step of the process.

Impact on Sleep Apnea and Snoring

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) occurs when the airway is blocked during sleep, causing snoring and disrupted breathing. Widening the upper jaw can increase airflow and reduce airway resistance, helping with these issues.

Clinical Evidence

Studies show that certain upper airway expansion treatments can greatly reduce sleep apnea symptoms in adults, making it a helpful choice for improving sleep-related breathing issues.

Early Orthodontic Intervention

Starting orthodontic care early in children can make a big difference. Expanding the palate during growth not only creates room for crowded teeth but also improves airflow, potentially lowering the risk of breathing issues like sleep apnea later in life.

Importance of Comprehensive Diagnosis

We use 3D imaging to get a clear view of the airway structure and to create highly accurate and effective treatment plans tailored to each patient.

Conclusion

At Smile City Orthodontics, Dr. Jacob and our skilled team are dedicated to delivering outstanding orthodontic care with the use of palatal expanders. By combining innovative technology with a personal approach, we help patients in the Sunnyvale area achieve the best results. Contact our office today to schedule your free orthodontic consultation and begin your journey to a perfect smile.

FAQ

How long does it take to see results with a palatal expander?

Most patients notice significant changes within a few weeks of starting treatment. However, the entire expansion process generally takes between 3 to 6 months, depending on the individual’s needs and treatment objectives.

Will wearing a palatal expander be painful?

Wearing a palatal expander may cause mild discomfort at the beginning, but this can be easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Our team provides clear guidance and is always ready to help address any concerns during the adjustment period.