Expanders
Recent research in orthodontics and anthropology indicates a significant reduction in the size and width of human jaws over the past 400-500 years. Historical remains from this period often reveal naturally straight teeth, all wisdom teeth intact, and minimal need for orthodontic intervention. This change has been largely attributed to shifts in diet, moving from tough, coarse foods to softer, processed ones. Various theories have emerged regarding methods to restore proper jaw size in humans, with one prominent tool being the palatal expander in orthopedic treatment. Discover how the palatal expander functions and explore the potential health benefits it offers for both you and your child.
How expansion works?
Concerns regarding narrow and constricted palates have been increasingly recognized in recent years, although research on this topic dates back over a century. The first documented case of palatal (or maxillary) expansion was in 1860 by Dr. Emerson C. Angell, but it wasn't until the 1960s that it became a subject of extensive research. Today, substantial evidence underscores the dental and systemic health benefits of this procedure. But what exactly occurs during palatal expansion?
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Our upper jaw, known as the maxilla, features a central line called the midpalatal suture. In children, this suture remains open, meaning the two halves of the maxilla are not fully fused together, similar to the soft spot found on a baby's skull. As the child grows and enters puberty, this suture gradually closes and the bones begin to fuse. However, applying outward pressure to the maxilla before this fusion occurs allows for widening of the palate and encourages new bone formation to fill the expanded space.
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An expander is a metal device with bands that encircle the back molars and a small screw positioned in the center. You will be instructed to turn this screw at home once or twice daily. As the screw is turned, it pushes the bones apart, resulting in a small gap appearing between the front teeth. After completing the prescribed turns according to Dr. Weiss's instructions, the expander remains in place until sufficient stability in the expansion is achieved, typically around 6 months, when it can then be removed.
How to Turn the Expander
Step 1: Find the keyhole
At the center of the expander, you'll notice a small hole positioned toward the front of the device.
Step 2: Insert the key tip into the hole
The key tip is connected to the handle via a swiveling hinge. It's often helpful to align the tip with the handle by straightening it before insertion.
Step 3: Insert the key until it is fully seated in the hole This may require some gentle pressure. The key should feel secure enough that it stays in place when you release the handle. If it doesn't feel secure, simply remove the key and try again.
Step 4: Push the key towards the back of the expander (toward the throat) until it reaches its limit.
Failing to fully turn the screw may make it challenging to locate the hole again next time.
Step 5: Pull directly downward to remove the key.
Avoid reversing the turn you just completed. Carefully wiggle the key to loosen it and remove it with gentle pressure.
Old hole
New hole
Step 6: Verify that a new hole has emerged at the front of the expander.
This confirms that you can easily find the hole when it's time for the next adjustment.
That's all there is to it! Surprisingly simple, right? If you have any difficulty finding the hole, please reach out to our office, and we'll assist you promptly. The most frequent issue we encounter with expanders is when patients or parents don't fully complete the turn of the screw and struggle to locate the hole afterward. Don't hesitate to contact us with any concerns or questions you may have!