Misaligned or crowded teeth are orthodontic problems that make biting and chewing difficult for many patients. These issues arise when there is not enough space for the teeth that are erupting out of the gums. In such cases, CDS Orthodontics offers palate expansion in Warrington. Read on to learn more about this orthodontic treatment.
What to Expect During a Palate Expansion Treatment in Warrington
A palatal expander is an oral device that widens the roof of the mouth and upper jaw to improve the fit between the upper and lower teeth. By preventing, lessening, or correcting the severity of teeth and jaw alignment, this appliance creates room for your teeth to grow. A palatal expander can treat tooth crowding, posterior crossbite, impacted teeth, and breathing issues.
The treatment period for palate expansion may vary depending on your age and the amount of correction required. Depending on the palate expansion procedure selected, palatal expander treatments can last for four to six months. By using the palatal expander, your child may achieve a better bite, enlarged airways that facilitate easier breathing, and improved tooth alignment by providing room for teeth to grow.
Types of Palate Expansion Processes
Rapid Palatal Expansion (RPE)
Rapid Palatal Expansion, or RPE, expands the upper jaw by 0.5 to 1 mm per day for over a few weeks. This device works by rotating a jackscrew inside the center, which pushes out its arms and expands the roof of the mouth. RPE works well for quick widening of the upper jaw and is effective for severe crowding or crossbites.
Slow Expansion
As the name implies, slow expansion extends the upper jaw considerably more slowly than the RPE and requires longer treatment times. It involves rotating the jackscrew inside the expander at the same speed for eight to 11 weeks. This process is more comfortable and best for mild to moderate orthodontic problems.
Implant-Supported Expansion
This process involves inserting two to four mini implants into the upper jaw before placing the expander on the roof of your mouth. You will activate the device daily so that the arms will push these implants directly to widen the upper jaw. An Implant-Supported Expansion treatment lasts for four to eight months. They are best for older teens and adults whose upper jaw is no longer growing.
Surgically Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion (SARPE)
This expansion process involves the surgical placement of an expander device inside the roof of your mouth to widen it directly. Adults are the common patients for this treatment, especially those whose roof of the mouth has narrowed significantly.
Invisalign Palate Expansion
The Invisalign Palate Expansion system is an effective alternative to traditional metal palate expanders. It involves a series of 3D-printed intraoral devices designed to widen the palate or upper jaw gradually. The appliances are removable, virtually invisible, and comfortable to wear. Children aged 3 to 15 can benefit from this palatal expansion system the most.
Safe Palate Expansion for Better Teeth Alignment
Expanding the upper jaw or the roof of your mouth is one of the most effective ways to improve teeth alignment. CDS Orthodontics offers palate expansion in Warrington. Our expert orthodontist, Dr. Simona Lekht, will help determine the best expansion process tailored to your needs.