Does palate expander break your bone?

A palatal expander allows more space for future teeth to grow into, creates a more aesthetically pleasing smile and better aligns the upper and lower teeth. Contrary to the myth, a palatal expander does not break the upper jaw bone.

Does an expander change your nose?

Rapid maxillary expansion produces a significant skeletal transverse expansion of nasal region in growing patients. No significant differences in nasal effects are expected when the appliance is anchored onto deciduous teeth, with or without the palatal acrylic coverage.

Can expander cause nose pain?

Palate expanders can lead to discomfort and pain as the upper jaw stretches and widens. Other side effects include: Aches in the jaw. Sinus pressure.

Does a palate expander change the shape of your nose?

Additional orthodontic work is sometimes needed in more severe cases. A Herpst appliance or a palatal expander can move the jaw or widen the upper jaw. The ultimate result is a new smile and, in most moderate to severe cases, orthodontics change the shape of your face – subtly.

Can you turn an expander too much?

The expander will be activated ONLY one time a day, for approximately 28-42 turns. Do not turn more than prescribed by Dr. Stormberg.

How much does it cost to replace an expander?

How much does a palatal expander cost? The cost of treatment depends on your location and the orthodontist you visit. In most cases, a palate expander costs anywhere between $2000 and $3000. Since palatal expansion is medically necessary, most insurance plans cover most or all of the treatment costs.

How long are expanders worn?

Typically, an expander will be in place for about 9 months total time. This may vary from child to child depending on his or her needs.

Do expanders make your face wider?

Palate expander will not make your face wider. However, if you have a facial asymmetry associated with posterior dental cross bite, then palatal expander can improve your facial asymmetry. Expanding the maxilla will correct your jaw to the way it was meant to be, and have it looking the way it was meant to look.

What happens if my palate expander falls off?

If your palate expander becomes loose on both sides, it will come completely out of the mouth. When this happens there is a risk of the appliance falling off while eating and potentially going down the throat. This is a major choking hazard for your child.

Can you breathe easily through your nose after rapid palate expansion?

Since your palate is also the floor of your nose, increasing the width of the palate also increases the size of the nasal chamber, and may enable you to breathe more freely through your nose. Anecdotally, many of my patients have reported that they can breathe easier through their nose after they have undergone rapid palatal expansion.

What happens if the expander is removed too early?

Some doctors will remove the expander at 6 months and replace it with a smaller appliance to hold the expansion such as trans-palatal arch or a removable acrylic retainer. If the expander is broken, dislodged or removed too early, the upper jaw expansion will relapse and the jaw will return back to the original size.

How much does it cost to get a palate expander?

The cost of treatment depends on your location and the orthodontist you visit. In most cases, a palate expander costs anywhere between $2000 and $3000. Since palatal expansion is medically necessary, most insurance plans cover most or all of the treatment costs. What is the best age to get a palate expander?