When there is not enough room for developing teeth, it can affect how they emerge and how the upper and lower teeth come together. In some cases, an orthodontic expander may be recommended to create additional space as part of a broader treatment plan.
This guide explains what an orthodontic expander is, how it works, when it may be recommended and what to expect during treatment.
What is an orthodontic expander?
An orthodontic expander, sometimes casually referred to as a teeth expander, is an appliance used to create additional space within the dental arch. It is most commonly used in children and teenagers while the jaws are still developing, although suitability depends on the individual patient. For a patient who is no longer growing or an adult, different techniques such as a MARPE or SARPE may be considered to achieve expansion.
When expansion involves the upper jaw, the appliance may also be referred to as a ‘palate expander’ or ‘orthodontic palatal expander’. It works by widening the palate to create more room for the teeth.
How does an orthodontic expander work?
Many orthodontic expanders are metal appliances that feature an expansion screw. They are generally fitted to the back molars using metal rings or acrylic caps. Over the course of treatment, the expander is gradually adjusted according to the orthodontist’s instructions, which may involve a parent or guardian turning the expansion screw for a prescribed period. This creates pressure that gradually expands the upper jaw.
What can you expect with an orthodontic expander?
After an orthodontic expander is fitted, it may take a short time to get used to the appliance. Some patients may notice temporary changes to speech or eating, as well as mild pressure or discomfort while the mouth adjusts.
If the appliance requires adjustment, your orthodontist will explain what to do and how often. They will also provide guidance on cleaning the appliance and may recommend avoiding certain foods to help protect it during treatment.
How long is an orthodontic expander used?
The length of time an orthodontic expander is used varies depending on the type of appliance, the amount of expansion required and the patient’s response. A palate expander will typically be worn for a minimum period of 6 months to allow for correction and retention, however this can vary, with some patients requiring it for up to a year.
Your orthodontist will explain the expected timeframe and monitor progress at review appointments.
Does age affect orthodontic expansion?
Age can influence how orthodontic expansion is planned because the jaws change as a person grows and matures. Treatment therefore depends on growth, skeletal development and diagnosis.
Here is how orthodontic expansion may differ for children and adults:
Orthodontic expanders for children
In children, orthodontic expansion is often considered while the jaws and teeth are still developing. This is the ideal time to expand the jaw as the palate is not fused and can be broadened easily. Growth plays an important part of treatment planning, particularly where there is a narrow upper jaw, crossbite or limited space for permanent teeth.
Orthodontic expanders for adults
In adults, orthodontic expansion may still be considered, but treatment is planned differently once jaw growth is complete. MARPE or SARPE may be considered to achieve expansion, which involve a surgical element to allow stability and success of expansion once the upper jaw is fused. Suitability depends on the individual diagnosis, skeletal maturity and the type of correction required.
When is an orthodontic expander used?
Orthodontic expanders are often considered as part of early orthodontic treatment and may be used before or alongside other orthodontic treatment, depending on the patient’s growth and individual needs.
The appliance may be considered when a child has a narrow dental arch, crossbite or crowding concerns. Expansion is also used to help create more room for permanent teeth.
The Australian Society of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic assessment at around the age of seven, allowing an orthodontist to assess their developing teeth and jaws.
What are the benefits of an orthodontic expander?
In suitable patients, orthodontic expansion may help create additional space and support the management of certain bite or crowding concerns. Potential benefits can include:
- Creating more room within the dental arch for developing or crowded teeth
- Helping to manage certain bite concerns, such as a crossbite
- Supporting treatment alongside other orthodontic appliances where appropriate
These benefits depend on the patient’s development, diagnosis and treatment needs.
Discuss your orthodontic options with Norwest Orthodontics
At Norwest Orthodontics, we provide personalised orthodontic care for children and adults, with treatment recommendations based on individual needs, growth and diagnosis. Depending on your clinical assessment, options may include plates, early interventions and other forms of orthodontic treatment.
For some patients, treatment planning may also involve approaches such as non-extraction treatment, where clinically appropriate. If you would like individual advice about whether an orthodontic expander or another treatment option may be suitable, contact our team to arrange a consultation.
Disclaimer: This information is general in nature and does not replace personalised advice from an orthodontist. Treatment suitability, timing and outcomes can vary depending on individual needs and clinical assessment.
