Expanders
Metal Expanders
A palatal expander widens the upper jaw by putting gentle pressure on the upper molars. This can correct crossbites and create space for permanent teeth. Additionally, it may decrease sleep-disordered breathing by improving the position of the tongue. Expanders are most effective on younger patients because the mid-palatal suture has not yet closed. In adults, we can utilize temporary mini-implants or surgically-assisted palatal expansion to achieve skeletal expansion. We offer two types of expanders – metal 3D printed expanders and Invisalign® expanders.
Metal expanders have been used for many years although with advancing technology, they continue to be a comfortable and very effective method to achieve skeletal expansion. Metal expanders are glued onto back molars and families use a small key to active the device. We utilize 3D metal printed expanders which have a better fit than traditional banded expanders. This improves patient comfort and reduces the risk of the appliance loosening.
Often alignment improves just with expansion because the archform has more space for the teeth. Additionally, with expansion treatment, sometimes we can avoid permanent tooth extractions. A broad archform is an important component to a beautiful smile! When we see a patient that would benefit from an expander, we are thankful to have an appliance that can make such a big impact!
Invisalign® Expanders
Invisalign® recently released an expander that we use to achieve skeletal expansion like the metal expander. These expanders are not like Invisalign® aligners. It is a more rigid and opaque plastic that goes across the roof of the mouth and does not cover the front teeth. It adapts closely to the contours of the back teeth and mouth so it is comfortable for the tongue. Patients leave these in 24 hours per day and only take them out once per day to clean and, if instructed, progress to the larger size. We find that patients with oral sensitivities tolerate Invisalign® expander better than metal expanders since it more closely adapts to the roof of the mouth. However, parents should keep in mind that the expansion will not be effective without 24 hours daily wear!
Similar to the metal expander, the Invisalign® expander creates a wider maxilla on younger patients, which widens the archform. Widening the archform creates more space for teeth, corrects posterior crossbites if present and increases the attractiveness of a patient’s smile!
Maxillary Skeletal Expander (MSE)
As kids grow up, unfortunately metal and Invisalign expanders become ineffective because the mid-palatal suture fuses. Generally this occurs in the early teen years. Pittman Family Orthodontics is proud to offer maxillary skeletal expanders, which can provide skeletal expansion on older teens and adults! This appliance effectively expands the maxilla, or upper jaw. This movement creates more space in the upper jaw to align teeth and improve the bite. It also creates a broader smile and may improve a restricted airway, leading to better sleep and overall health.
There are multiple names for these appliances. You may see the term 'Moon Expander' or 'mini-screw assisted rapid palatal expansion' (MARPE). Maxillary Skeletal Expander or MSE is used most frequently.
These expanders are fixed to the roof of the mouth with temporary mini-implants, which conveniently are placed at our office. The patient activates the device with a special key at home. The expansion is gradual, which minimizes discomfort. These expanders are typically in for 6-9 months while patients transition into braces or aligners. At your complimentary consult, we will advise you if you would benefit from expansion treatment as we determine your best custom treatment plan!