STEP 1

In a bright area tip your child’s head back. You can also use an external light source such as a flash light, study light or even your cell phone to illuminate the roof of the mouth.

STEP 2

Place the key in the hole until it is firmly in place. The bend in the key will prevent the key to touch the palate.

STEP 3

Pushing the key towards the back of the mouth, you will notice the fender will rotate and the new hole will appear. The rotation stops when the key meets the back of the expander.

STEP 4

By pushing back and down towards the tongue, remove the key. It is extremely important to avoid undoing the turn by keeping the key in the central hole when attempting to take the key out. The next hole for insertion of the key should now be visible.

See How the Palatal Expander Works?

See how to use Palatal Expander?

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FAQ

What is a palatal expander?

Palatal expanders are very simple in function and form: two distinct metal pieces that work together to move a patient’s palatal bones to make room for more teeth to grow. These orthodontic appliances are also useful to correct problems with the alignment of a patient’s jaws.

How does a palatal expander work?

A palatal expander works as expected: expanding a patient’s palate. The two pieces of metal gradually apply force on a patient’s teeth and palatal bones to push them back. This creates more space for incoming permanent teeth, and can also realign jaws. If you are looking for this treatment, look no further, we serve the city of Johns Creek and offer palatal expanders.

What are the benefits of a palatal expander?

Patients coming from the city of Roswell who get these appliances installed have the position of their jaws corrected. The actual bones are separated as the expander pushes them, creating more space for a young patient’s new teeth. Palatal expanders are great for fixing crossbites, and some patients even report better breathing as a result of this treatment.

Why would a palatal expander be necessary?

As your orthodontists in Alpharetta, we recommend the use of a palatal expander if we discover any indications you will suffer from orthodontic complications like malocclusions (problems with the alignment of your jaws), severe overcrowding (bunched up teeth), or if a patient’s incoming permanent teeth are impacted (when a primary tooth prevents the normal eruption of a permanent tooth).

How long do you have to wear a palatal expander?

It is hard to say for how long you will have to use a palatal expander without looking at your particular case. Usually, when a patient who comes to us from the city of Roswell is recommended to wear these appliances, an orthodontist may indicate that the patient has to use them between 3 to 6 months in total.