Dental Expanders

As your child starts to grow, so does their mouth, and they may need to step into the world of orthodontics. Braces and Invisalign are two of the most common orthodontic methods for straightening teeth. However, sometimes they require the added support of dental expanders. The Pediatrics on Park is happy to provide this as part of our orthodontic treatments in our South Plainfield, NJ office.

A pediatric palate expander is an orthodontic tool used to widen the palate (the roof of the mouth) over time. Every child is unique, including their palate shape. Narrow palates can cause improper tooth growth and jaw alignment, making it harder for your Pediatrics on Park orthodontists to transform your child’s forever smile.

Pediatric palatal expanders apply appropriate pressure to the palate until it reaches the desired expansion. Treatment can take anywhere from three to twelve months, depending on your child’s unique palate shape.

Not every child will need a palate expander. Take a look at some of the signs listed below that may indicate your child needs a palate expander:

• Impacted teeth

A narrow palate limits the available space needed for adult teeth to grow in. This issue can lead to problems, like impacted teeth. A dental expander reduces this particular risk by widening the palate and allowing space for teeth to grow naturally.

• Crowded teeth

With a narrow palate, teeth have limited space to grow properly. The limited space leads to overcrowding and overlapping. A palatal expander widens the palate to give their permanent teeth more room to grow. This will make it easier for your child to maintain their oral health, and for our Pediatrics on Park orthodontist to straighten your child’s smile using braces or Invisalign.

• Crossbites

Alignment and biting issues can also be a problem found with patients with narrow palates. Crossbite is an issue that can cause gum disease or even tooth chipping. 

The orthodontic treatments offered at Pediatrics on Park not only solve dental complications, they have the ability to avoid them altogether. Your child deserves a beautiful and healthy smile. If you are located in or near the South Plainfield, NJ area, contact us to schedule an appointment for all your kids.