A young boy beams while sitting in a dental chair as a dentist, wearing gloves and a mask, examines his teeth with dental tools. The conversation includes talk of a palatal expander to ensure his future smiles remain just as bright in Greenville, SC

Palatal Expander in Greenville SC

A dentist in blue scrubs and a mask stands beside a seated patient with dark hair, holding dental tools, ready to discuss the benefits of a palatal expander in their modern dental office in Greenville, SC

What is a Palatal Expander?

At Tollison Orthodontics located in Greenville, Dr. Blake Tollison provides expert care using palatal expanders, a cutting-edge orthodontic appliance. A palatal expander, also called a rapid palatal expander (RPE), is a specially designed tool to widen the upper jaw gradually. It works by applying gentle, steady pressure to create more space for proper tooth alignment and to enhance bite function.

Types and Mechanism of Palatal Expanders

Our office offers various types of palatal expanders, each tailored to meet specific patient needs.

Rapid Palatal Expander (RPE)

This expander works well for younger patients. It is attached to the molars and uses a screw mechanism to make precise adjustments. The earlier the intervention, the better, as it works best before the palate bones fuse.

Bone-Borne Expanders

Effective for patients with unique dental concerns such as cleft palates, these expanders employ advanced miniscrew technology and are suitable for teens and adults seeking correction.

Miniscrew-Assisted RPE (MARPE)

This innovative expander uses mini-implants to achieve better skeletal changes with minimal impact on teeth. It works well for older teens and adults.

The Process of Impression or Scan and Placement of Separators

We utilize modern technology to ensure our patients are comfortable during the treatment process.

Placement of Spacers or Separators

If necessary, separators are positioned carefully before fitting your expander. This creates adequate space and ensures that the fit is both precise and comfortable. Spacers may not be needed for certain types of expanders.

Band Fit and Impression (Mold)

Once the space is ready, bands are fitted around your teeth, and either a traditional impression or a digital scan is taken. This step captures the exact shape of your dental structure to design your customized palatal expander.

Deliver Appliance

Your expander is ready! During this appointment, the appliance is fitted in place, and instructions on how to care for and adjust it are provided to ensure effective treatment.

Effectiveness and Outcomes

Addressing maxillary deficiencies with expanders has been shown to improve skeletal development during growth. Widening the upper jaw not only resolves crowding but could also enhance nasal breathing, benefiting patients with mouth-breathing issues.

Palate Expanders, Airway Improvement, Snoring and Sleep Apnea

Palatal expanders do more than just improve alignment. They are also useful for improving breathing and sleep quality. Many patients report better sleep and less snoring after treatment.

Impact on Speech and Comfort

Although there might be a short adaptation phase, most patients get used to their palatal expanders fairly quickly. Our team is here to offer complete support every step of the way.

Impact on Sleep Apnea and Snoring

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), a condition where the airway becomes blocked during sleep, often causes snoring and breathing difficulties. Widening the upper airway with an expander can improve airflow, reduce resistance, and ease these symptoms.

Clinical Evidence

Research indicates that specific airway expansion methods may greatly alleviate sleep apnea symptoms in adults, emphasizing their effectiveness in addressing sleep-related breathing disorders.

Early Orthodontic Intervention

Early orthodontic treatment in children can play a vital role. Widening the palate during development helps create room for crowded teeth and may enhance airflow.

Importance of Comprehensive Diagnosis

Comprehensive diagnosis by orthodontist is crucial for identifying airway issues, as it provides a detailed understanding of the airway structure to develop accurate and effective treatment plans.

Conclusion

At Tollison Orthodontics, Dr. Blake Tollison and our skilled team provide unmatched orthodontic care using palatal expanders. Our personalized treatment approach, coupled with advanced technology, ensures the best outcomes for the Greenville and nearby community. Schedule your free orthodontic consultation today to start your journey toward a healthier, more confident smile!

FAQ

How long does it take to see results with a palatal expander?

Many of our patients start noticing significant improvements within the first few weeks of treatment. That said, the full expansion process generally takes about 3 to 6 months, based on personal needs and goals.

Will wearing a palatal expander be painful?

Patients may feel mild discomfort at first, but it’s usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers. Tollison Orthodontics offers detailed care instructions, and Dr. Blake Tollison is always available for any concerns.