[BRACES EXPLAINED] Palatal Expanders

Braces Explained: Palatal Expanders

In this video, I will be answer the question of "what are palatal expanders?" and "what are they used for?" Expansion can be used in several ways in orthodontics! The primary use of palatal expansion is in the younger patient who can achieve skeletal expansion where the patient has a posterior crossbite (upper back teeth are more towards the tongue than the lower back teeth). To correct this, we use a rapid palatal expander to expand the two halves of the upper jaw by using a jack-screw-like appliance. This is relatively painless and you feel some pressure but all-in-all it is well received. For the older patient, skeletal expansion can still be achieved to correct a posterior crossbite but surgery or mini-screws may be necessary to assist in separating the mid-palatal suture. When skeletal expansion is achieved, a gap will be noticed between the front two teeth, but rest assure that this gap will be closed once the braces are placed!

Slower palatal expansion can also be used where we are trying to achieve a dental expansion rather than a skeletal one. To do this, similar appliances are used but the protocol of turning the expander is different & much less frequent/slower. Ultimately, your treating orthodontist knows best what you need and you should follow his/her personal protocol for you!

In either case, expansion increases the amount of space in your upper jaw and allows for you to minimize the need for extractions in mild-moderate crowding cases!

Big thank you to Accutech laboratories for their support and lending of these models and jackscrew palatal expanders! https://www.accutechortho.com/

As always, if you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact me via the comments below!

See you next time!

Greg Asatrian, D.D.S.
http://asatrianortho.com/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/drgregortho
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/gasatrian

This video may contain orthodontic appliances, devices and/or procedural content. The content seen in this video is provided only for education purposes and is not intended to be a substitute for professional dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For personalized advice, please be sure to visit a professional orthodontist near you!

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