Expanding your child’s palate

In the orthodontic world, expanding a palate isn’t about trying bold new foods, it’s about literally widening the space commonly called the roof of the mouth, i.e., the palate. A narrow arch in the palate can make for crowded teeth, misaligned bite and other dental issues.

At first glance, the device itself looks intimidating: the metal contraption spans the roof of the mouth and is affixed to the back teeth. Expanders come with an adjustment key, for parents or caregivers to insert into a tiny keyhole and turn in increments over time. We ensure that parents and caregivers feel comfortable in learning how and when to turn their child’s expander.

It’s important that your child avoid hard or sticky foods that could dis-

lodge the expander. You will likely need to help them get used to cleaning between the expander and the roof of the mouth, as it can trap food.

The time needed for palate expansion can be anywhere from a few months to a year. In adolescent children, the jawbones are still forming, so it takes much less time than in teens or adults. It’s part of why we recommend starting orthodontic treatment at age 7.

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This smile is brought to you by:

Wade L. Haslam, DMD, PC

2657 NW Rolling Green Drive Corvallis | 541.757.2440 valleyvieworthodontics.com