Most experts agree that children should begin visiting the dentist as soon as they have their first tooth or by their first birthday, whichever comes first. Part of the reason for this recommendation is to identify any potential issues early and explain, discuss, and plan appropriate treatments.
At Century City Smiles, Shawn Saidian, DDS, and Tania Ohebsion, DDS, agree that beginning dental visits early is best. Children are comfortable when visiting the dentist is a regular, routine event. Some issues are best treated while your child is still growing, such as a narrow upper jaw, which can be treated with a palatal expander.
Expander explainer
An expander, which is sometimes called a palate expander or a palatal expander, is a device that is used to create more space for your upper teeth. It gently and gradually pushes the two halves of your upper jaw away from each other.
The device is fitted on the roof of your mouth with pieces that fit against your teeth. Several types of expanders are available, and the best one depends on the reason you need an expander.
Who needs an expander?
Expanders are used to treat various orthodontic issues. For example, when your upper and lower teeth don’t meet properly, it’s called a malocclusion. One type of malocclusion is a cross bite, which is when your upper teeth are behind your lower teeth when your mouth is closed.
Another problem that a palatal expander can correct is overcrowding. Sometimes a narrow jaw means there’s not enough room for all of your teeth.
Both crossbite and overcrowding can cause other issues, such as difficulty chewing, impacted teeth, crooked teeth, or even breathing problems.
Timing the treatment
Throughout this post, we’ve talked about the problems an expander can correct and addressed “you.” However, you, the person reading this post, are probably not a good candidate for an expander. That’s because expanders work for people who are still growing—children.
Children and young teenagers may benefit from an expander because their jaws are still malleable. In fact, if a child has a problem that an expander could treat and it remains uncorrected, they may require surgery later.
Dr. Ohebsion makes treatment recommendations based on your child’s skeletal development, age, gender, and other factors. Having regular dental visits throughout childhood means your child’s oral health is closely monitored, and the best timing for any necessary treatments, including the use of an expander, can be carefully planned.
Do you have questions about how a palatal expander works? Schedule an appointment at Century City Smiles. We’ll be happy to see you!