A rapid palatal expander (RPE) is an orthodontic appliance used to create more space in the palate or roof of the mouth. Of course, not every child needs a palate expander. To see if your child is a candidate for a rapid palatal expander or how to maintain optimal oral health while wearing one, AbraDental has put together the following information.

At What Age Can You Get a Palate Expander: Determining If Your Child Needs a Rapid Palatal Expander

There are a few reasons why a rapid palatal expander may be recommended for your child. The main reason is to fix a crossbite. This occurs when the upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth instead of in front of them, often because the upper jaw is too narrow for the back teeth to line up properly. A crossbite may cause several problems, such as difficulty chewing and speaking, as well as an increased risk of cavities and gum disease. Additionally, rapid palatal expanders are often used to make room for crowded teeth, which may assist your child in avoiding more invasive procedures, such as extractions. Creating more space early may also reduce the chance of impacted teeth and future tooth extractions.

The best age for your child to get an RPE is often between seven and eight, when some children still have baby teeth. During this time, early intervention can help guide jaw growth because your child’s upper jaw is still forming. Palate expanders are most effective, while the bones are still malleable. However, palate expanders can be used on older children as well. If your child has issues with their bite or crowding, ask about an orthodontic evaluation and a personalized treatment plan to see whether a palate expander is right for them and at what age can you get a palate expander.

The Benefits of a Rapid Palate Expander for the Upper Jaw

Using a rapid palatal expander as part of orthodontic treatment has several benefits when palate expansion is necessary. First, it can widen a narrow upper jaw or narrow jaw, improving the fit of crowded teeth and creating more space for permanent teeth to erupt into place. Additionally, it can help your child’s top set of teeth fit more evenly over the lower jaw, creating a more balanced bite. Lastly, a palate expander may help breathing and improve breathing for your child, which can reduce mouth breathing and support healthy facial growth. Children with a constricted palate often breathe through their mouths because they cannot get enough air through their noses, and early orthodontic treatment can guide development more effectively while a child is still growing.

How Does a Rapid Palatal Expander Work?

A rapid palate expander is an orthodontic appliance, or orthodontic expander, placed on the roof of the mouth. It consists of two halves connected in the middle by a tiny screw. As the screw is turned, the two halves of the expander gradually begin to move apart to gradually widen the upper jaw at the mid palatal suture, and rapid palate expanders typically widen the jaw by about 0.5 millimeters per day during palatal expansion. This action puts gentle pressure on the teeth and may cause a tingling sensation under the eyes and around the bridge of the nose. The active expansion phase generally takes one to three weeks, and total treatment time commonly ranges from six to twelve months, with a retention phase lasting about three months after expansion so new bone can stabilize the palate’s new shape. A gap may form between your child’s two front teeth while the palate expands. This is completely normal and often closes on its own once the expander is removed.

How to Activate Your Child’s Rapid Palatal Expander

Your child’s orthodontist will give you specific instructions on activating their palatal expander as part of palate expander treatment. Activating the expander generally involves turning the screw located in the middle of the device. This is done by using a key that is provided by the orthodontist. The key fits inside a small hole in the front of the expander and is turned towards the back of the mouth. If done correctly, a small click will be heard, and another hole will be visible for the next turn. The orthodontist will determine the number of turns and the frequency with which they are made.

Typically a rapid palatal expander is only activated once per day. Therefore, it is best to turn the expander at night before bedtime. This will help your child sleep through discomfort, and most children have only mild pressure after a turn while the palate expander works during sleep. In the first few days, children feel mild pressure on the roof of the mouth, but it usually passes quickly. If you are worried a palate expander hurt your child after a missed turn, do not try to make up for it by turning it more the next night. This can increase discomfort and may even damage their palate.

Caring for Your Child’s Rapid Palatal Expander

Once your child’s palatal expander is in place, it is essential to understand how to care for it properly. The palate expander must be kept clean to avoid bacteria buildup and decay. Your child should brush their expander along with their teeth at least twice a day. It is also a good idea to use a mouth rinse to keep the palate expander clean.

In addition to brushing and rinsing, the expander should be checked daily for any food or plaque buildup. A water flosser may help remove any food particles stuck in the palate expander. If chewing feels tender at first, offer soft foods for the first few days. If your child is experiencing excessive pain or discomfort, contact your orthodontist for assistance; severe pain is not typical. In older, delayed cases, treatment may require surgically assisted rapid palate expanders for adults when the bones are fused. Some implant-supported expanders apply pressure using mini dental implants. This kind of upper jaw expansion may also be part of treatment planning in complex delayed cases. The expander may need to be adjusted. Many parents notice their child adjusts quickly once the first few days pass. Furthermore, visit your orthodontist immediately if the palate expander is loose or damaged, including fixed expanders. Do not try to fix the expander yourself.

Maintain a Healthy Smile With AbraDental

At AbraDental, we are committed to providing outstanding dental and orthodontic care for the whole family. If you think your child might benefit from a rapid palate expander, or if you have any other questions about your family’s oral health, we would be happy to help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and start on the path to a lifetime of healthy smiles.