What Is a Palate Expander and What Does It Do?
When you hear the word “orthodontics,” you likely think of braces or clear aligners. However, sometimes treatment requires a different approach, especially in growing children. A palate expander is one such tool that plays a crucial role in creating the foundation for a healthy, beautiful smile. At Clear Choice Orthodontic Associates, our expert team in Friendswood, TX, often uses palate expanders to address specific orthodontic issues before they become more complex.
This guide will explain what a palate expander is, what it does, and why it might be the right solution for you or your child.
We will cover the entire process, from the initial consultation to the final results, so you can feel confident and informed about this effective orthodontic treatment.
Key Takeaways
- A palate expander is an orthodontic device used to widen a narrow upper jaw.
- It is most effective in children and adolescents whose jaws are still growing.
- Expanders can correct issues like overcrowding, crossbites, and breathing problems.
- Treatment is gradual and typically involves minimal discomfort.
- Clear Choice Orthodontic Associates provides expert consultations to determine if a palate expander is the right choice for your family.
What Is a Palate Expander?
A palate expander is a custom-made orthodontic appliance designed to gradually widen the upper jaw (maxilla). The roof of your mouth, or palate, is actually made of two separate halves that don’t fully fuse together until after puberty. The expander works by applying gentle, steady pressure on these two halves, encouraging them to move apart. This separation stimulates new bone to grow in the gap, permanently widening the jaw.
So, what does a palate expander do? Its primary function is to create more space in the upper jaw. This can solve a range of dental and health issues.
There are several types of palate expanders, but they generally fall into two categories:
- Fixed Expanders: These are the most common type. They are attached to the upper back teeth, usually with metal bands. A small key is used to turn a screw in the center of the device, which gradually widens the jaw. The rapid palatal expander (RPE) is a popular fixed option.
- Removable Expanders: While less common for significant expansion, these look similar to a retainer and can be taken out for cleaning. They are typically used for minor corrections.
Why Do You Need a Palate Expander?
An orthodontist might recommend a palate expander for several important reasons. Why do you need a palate expander? It’s often the most effective solution for specific structural issues in the jaw that can lead to bigger problems down the line.
Common reasons include:
- Correcting a Crossbite: A crossbite occurs when the upper jaw is too narrow to fit correctly with the lower jaw, causing some upper teeth to bite down inside the lower teeth. An expander widens the upper arch so the top and bottom teeth align properly.
- Fixing Dental Overcrowding: When the jaw is too small, there isn’t enough room for all the permanent teeth to erupt in their proper positions. Expanding the palate creates the necessary space, which can prevent the need for tooth extractions later.
- Improving Breathing: A narrow palate can contribute to a restricted nasal airway, leading to mouth breathing, snoring, or even sleep apnea. Widening the jaw can open up the nasal passages, making it easier to breathe through the nose.
- Making Room for Impacted Teeth: Sometimes, a tooth gets stuck in the jawbone and can’t emerge correctly. This is known as an impacted tooth. Creating more space with an expander can help these teeth erupt naturally.
While palate expanders are most effective in children and teenagers whose jaw bones are still developing, they can sometimes be used for adults, often in combination with other orthodontic procedures.
The Process of Getting a Palate Expander
Starting treatment at our orthodontic office in Friendswood is a straightforward and patient-focused process.
- Initial Consultation: Your journey begins with a complimentary Dr. McLendon Smile Analysis. Our team will conduct a thorough exam, including x-rays, to evaluate the structure of your jaw and teeth. Dr. Ray McLendon will then determine if a palate expander is the best course of action.
- Fitting the Expander: If an expander is needed, we will take molds of your teeth to create a custom-fit appliance. At your next appointment, the expander will be secured to your upper molars. We’ll show you exactly how to activate it at home.
- Activation: You or a parent will use a special key to turn a screw in the center of the expander. This is typically done once or twice a day as instructed by your orthodontist. Each turn applies gentle pressure, widening the expander by a very small amount. You might feel a bit of pressure or a tingling sensation, but it shouldn’t be painful.
- Stabilization: Once the desired expansion is achieved, the expander will remain in place for several months. This allows new bone to form in the gap and stabilize the new jaw width. After this period, the expander is removed, and the next phase of orthodontic treatment, such as braces or Invisalign, can begin if needed.
Benefits of Palate Expansion
The advantages of using a palate expander extend beyond just a straighter smile. The treatment offers several long-term health and aesthetic benefits:
- Improved Dental Alignment: Creates a solid foundation for teeth to align correctly, often simplifying future orthodontic work.
- Enhanced Facial Symmetry: A wider upper jaw can lead to a broader, more balanced smile and improved facial aesthetics.
- Better Breathing: Opening the airway can reduce mouth breathing and related issues like snoring.
- Clearer Speech: Correcting jaw alignment can sometimes resolve certain speech impediments.
- Reduced Risk of Impacted Teeth: By creating space, expanders help permanent teeth emerge properly, avoiding more invasive procedures.
Palate Expanders vs. Jaw Expanders
You might hear the terms “palate expander” and “jaw expander” used interchangeably, but there’s a slight distinction. What is a jaw expander? Generally, “jaw expander” is a broader term that can refer to any device used to widen either the upper or lower jaw.
However, a “palate expander” specifically targets the upper jaw (the maxilla), which is composed of two halves that can be separated. The lower jaw (the mandible) is a single, U-shaped bone that cannot be expanded in the same way.
Correcting a narrow lower jaw typically involves more complex orthodontic or surgical procedures. Therefore, when most orthodontists talk about expansion, they are referring to the upper palate.

What to Expect During Treatment
It’s normal to have some questions about what life will be like with a palate expander. Here are a few tips:
- Managing Discomfort: You may feel some pressure on your teeth or on the roof of your mouth after turning the key. This is normal and usually subsides quickly. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help if needed.
- Speech and Eating: It might take a few days to get used to talking and eating with the expander. Your tongue will adjust, and speech will return to normal. Stick to softer foods at first and avoid sticky or hard items that could damage the appliance.
- Oral Hygiene: Keeping your teeth and the expander clean is crucial. Brush carefully around the appliance and use a water flosser or special tools to rinse under it and remove any trapped food particles.
- A Gap Between the Front Teeth: Don’t be alarmed if a gap appears between your two front teeth! This is a sign that the expander is working correctly. The gap will typically be closed during the next phase of orthodontic treatment.
Your Trusted Orthodontic Provider
At Clear Choice Orthodontic Associates, we have helped transform over 25,000 smiles since 1983. Dr. Ray McLendon and our dedicated team are committed to providing personalized, affordable, and effective care. We use the latest technology to ensure you receive the best possible results.
As a top 1% Invisalign provider, Dr. McLendon has the expertise to handle even the most complex cases, always prioritizing the long-term health and beauty of your smile.
Take the Next Step
Ready to learn more? See what our patients have to say about their experiences.
Visit our Google My Business page to read our reviews!
If you’re in the Friendswood, TX, area and think you or your child could benefit from orthodontic treatment, we invite you to schedule a free consultation. Let us help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is a palate expander painful?
A: Most patients report feeling pressure rather than pain. Any discomfort is usually mild and temporary, occurring shortly after the key is turned.
Q: How long does my child need to wear a palate expander?
A: The active expansion phase typically lasts a few weeks to a few months, followed by a stabilization period of about six months. The total time varies based on individual needs.
Q: Can adults get a palate expander?
A: While expansion is most effective in children, some adults can benefit from it, though the process may be slower or require a surgically assisted approach. Dr. McLendon can determine the best option for you during your consultation.
Q: How do you clean a palate expander?
A: Thorough brushing and rinsing after meals are essential. A water flosser can be very helpful for cleaning underneath the appliance and around the bands.