The Palate Expander is a cemented appliance designed to expand the skeletal structure of the upper jaw.

Placement
Although this appliance is cemented to the upper back molars, fitting into the roof of the mouth, patients play an active role in treatment by expanding this device per doctors orders. Slight discomfort, including minor mouth itching, may be experienced during the first week of treatment. A temporary space between the front teeth can also appear with the use of a palate expander. The appearance of this space is absolutely normal. This space may disappear when the turning of the appliance is complete.

Care and Maintenance
Care must be taken when brushing and flossing with the palate expander. Guide a toothbrush gently across the surface of the teeth. Angle the brush towards the gums to adequately clean under the gum line. Floss between teeth, scraping the surfaces of the teeth by moving the floss up and down. Do not force the floss between teeth, as this can damage the gums. To prevent food from collecting above the "shelf" of the palate expander and irritating the palate, clean the space between the appliance and the roof of the mouth with a small brush. Rinsing with water or mouthwash after every meal can also help dislodge any unwanted debris.

Avoid hard and sticky foods that can pull the expander from the mouth - especially bubble gum! Contact our office if the appliance becomes
loose or if an adjustment hole is "lost" when expanding the appliance.