EXPANDERS
Early Intervention Orthodontics
EXPANDERS
At Liverpool Dental Care, we understand that the early stages of a child’s development are crucial for their overall well-being. That’s why we offer a comprehensive approach to early orthodontic intervention, focusing on comfort and preventing potential issues before they escalate. Maxillary Expander gently widens the upper jaw, creating space for incoming permanent teeth and addressing certain bite issues.
Expanders
Expanders are devices used to widen the upper jaw to create more space for crowded teeth or to correct a narrow dental arch. They are commonly used in children while their jaw bones are still growing, typically between the ages of 8 and 16.
How it works
Expanders work by applying gentle pressure to the upper molars, gradually widening the upper jaw over time. This process is called “palatal expansion.” The expander is usually fixed in place for a few months and is adjusted periodically by a your dentist to achieve the desired expansion.
Benefits
An expander offers several significant benefits for growing children. By widening the dental arches, it creates more space for the teeth, allowing for better alignment and reducing the need for extractions. Additionally, an expander can improve nasal breathing by correcting nasal passage issues, leading to enhanced airflow and overall respiratory health. Moreover, it promotes proper mouth posture, which can help address potential orthodontic problems early on, setting the foundation for a healthier smile as the child grows.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will the expander be placed and adjusted?
The Hyrax super screw expander is a fixed and painless orthodontic appliance designed to effectively widen the dental arches. Upon placement, the expander is securely attached to the upper molars using bands, ensuring it remains in position during treatment. One of its key advantages is that it can be easily expanded by parents using a special key, allowing for gradual adjustments at home. A demonstration will be shown on how to properly turn the expander, ensuring parents feel confident in managing the adjustments.
Regular visits to the dentist will be necessary for ongoing adjustments and monitoring of progress. During these appointments, the dentist will check the expansion, assess how well the appliance is functioning, and make any necessary modifications. This collaborative approach not only ensures that the expander effectively widens the dental arches but also addresses any potential issues early on, ultimately leading to improved alignment and overall oral health.
Will I need to use any special tools or techniques to clean around the expander?
Following protocol is recommended for cleaning around the expander to maintain good oral hygiene. Here are some tips to ensure effective cleaning:
Soft-Bristled Toothbrush: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently brush around the expander and ensure all surfaces are clean.
Interdental Brushes: These small, tapered brushes can help reach the spaces between the expander and your teeth, effectively removing food particles and plaque.
Floss Threaders or Super Floss: If traditional flossing is difficult due to the expander, consider using a floss threader or super floss, which can help you navigate around the appliance more easily.
Antimicrobial Mouthwash: Rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash can help reduce plaque buildup and keep the area around the expander fresh.
Regular Check-ups: Maintain regular dental visits for professional cleanings and check-ups, ensuring any hard-to-reach areas are thoroughly cleaned by your dentist.
By incorporating these tools and techniques into your oral hygiene routine, you can keep your teeth and expander clean and healthy throughout your treatment.
What should I do if the expander causes discomfort or irritation?
If the expander causes discomfort or irritation, there are several steps you can take to alleviate the issue:
Saltwater Rinse: Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help soothe any irritation in the gums or soft tissue caused by the expander. Mix about a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and swish it gently in your mouth.
Orthodontic Wax: Applying orthodontic wax over any areas of the expander that are causing irritation can create a barrier between the appliance and your mouth, reducing friction and discomfort.
Pain Relief: If the discomfort persists, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain. Be sure to follow the recommended dosage on the package.
Soft Foods: Stick to a diet of soft foods for a few days to minimize discomfort while your mouth adjusts to the expander.
Contact Us: If the irritation continues or worsens, contact us for advice. They may need to adjust the expander to relieve pressure or address any issues that are causing discomfort.
Taking these steps can help you manage any discomfort during the adjustment period as you get used to wearing the expander.
Will I need to wear a retainer after the expander is removed?
Yes, after the expander is removed, you will need to wear an upper removable retainer known as a Hawley appliance. This retainer is essential for maintaining the expanded arch and newly achieved position of your teeth and prevent relapse. The Hawley retainer is custom-made to fit your mouth and can be adjusted as needed, providing both comfort and effectiveness.
In addition to the upper retainer, a lower fixed wire will be placed on the anterior teeth to hold their position until you are ready for the next phase of treatment, typically around the age of 14.
Wearing your retainer as instructed is crucial for long-term success; it will help secure the results achieved from the expander and prepare your teeth for any further orthodontic adjustments or treatments that may be needed in the future.
What are the potential side effects or risks associated with the expander?
While the use of an expander is generally safe and effective, there are some potential side effects and risks to be aware of:
Discomfort or Pain: It’s common to experience mild discomfort or soreness in the teeth and gums, especially after initial placement or adjustments. This discomfort typically subsides within a few days.
Nasal Congestion: Some patients may notice temporary nasal congestion or difficulty breathing through the nose as the expander works to widen the dental arch. This is usually mild and resolves over time.
Speech Changes: The presence of an expander may initially affect speech, causing slight lisping or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds. Most patients adapt quickly as they get used to the appliance.
Gum Irritation: The appliance may cause irritation to the gums or the inside of the cheeks, especially during the adjustment period. Using orthodontic wax can help alleviate this irritation.
Tooth Movement: In some cases, teeth may shift too much if the expander is turned too frequently or aggressively. It’s important to follow the orthodontist’s instructions regarding adjustments.
Overall, while these side effects are possible, they are typically manageable, and your dentist will monitor your progress closely to address any concerns that may arise during treatment.