Our bite can be influenced by habits like thumb sucking and also by hereditary factors. If you have large teeth and your spouse has a small upper palate, your child could inherit both genetic factors. This might result in crowded teeth and the need for braces. For some, an expander will have to be put in place prior to beginning orthodontic treatment. If your child is in need of braces in Long Island, our orthodontist will begin with an assessment of palate size to determine the plan of treatment.The expander is a fixture in the field of orthodontics and is usually a prelude to braces. The appliance is used to help expand the upper jaw by putting gentle pressure on the maxillary molars. The device will have to be adjusted a few times until the desired width is achieved. It is important to stress that this orthodontic appliance must be worn as prescribed by the orthodontist.
If you wonder how jaw expansion can help create the perfect bite, the reason is quite simple. With proper expansion techniques, the orthodontist will be able to give large teeth ample space to move when braces are put in place. When the appropriate width is reached, the patient will be required to wear the orthodontic expander for a few more months. No adjustments will be made, but it is an important step because if treatment discontinues abruptly, there is a chance that the jaw will return to its original width.
There are other benefits to jaw expansion. Some people who have narrow or deep jaws, breathing through the nose is difficult. Those who wore their expander religiously report that they have an easier time breathing nasally. It is also important to point out that not everyone who requires braces will need to have an expander before treatment starts. With the help of a panoramic and cephalometric x-ray, your orthodontist will be able to determine if the patient requires this treatment beforehand. Since the palate fuses when the patient is 15 to 16 years of age, the expander is designed to be used before this occurs.
To learn more and to schedule a consultation, please contact Newman’s Orthodontics at516-626-2060.
