Orthodontic Palatal Expander

The severity of the issue: Individuals with issues like severe crowding, crossbite, or narrow jaw arches may benefit from palatal expansion, especially if these issues are causing discomfort or aesthetic concerns. 

Overall oral health: Healthy teeth and gums are essential for successful palatal expansion. Any underlying dental issues must be addressed before treatment begins.

Bone structure: An orthodontic evaluation will assess the structure of the patient’s jaw and determine if it can be effectively expanded without surgery.

Breathing problems: Individuals suffering from sleep-disordered breathing like sleep apnea might benefit from palatal expansion as it can increase the airway space and improve breathing.

Invisalign Palatal Expander

The Invisalign Palatal Expander is an advanced solution that integrates the features and benefits of Invisalign with those of traditional palate expanders. Removable and less visible, this option is ideal for patients who prefer to avoid the discomfort of fixed appliances. It provides a comprehensive approach to addressing crowding and jaw misalignment by gradually widening the upper jaw while also aligning the teeth.

Rapid Maxillary Expansion Appliance

The Rapid Maxillary Expansion (RME) appliance is one of the most commonly used types of palate expanders. The RME requires regular screw adjustments by the patient or a caregiver, which gradually creates a split in the mid-palatal suture over a few weeks. This type of palatal expander is highly effective for correcting severe cases of crossbite, crowding, and narrow arches. 

Quad Helix Appliance

The Quad Helix appliance consists of four loops that are adjusted by the orthodontist to apply gentle, continuous pressure on the upper teeth and jaw. This option is often recommended for individuals with mild to moderate crowding or when slight expansion is needed over a longer period.

Removable Palate Expander

A removable palate expander is a custom-made device that can be taken in and out of the mouth by the patient. It’s typically used for patients who require minor expansion or those who prefer a less invasive option. The removable nature of this appliance makes it easier to maintain oral hygiene, though it requires consistent wear to be effective. The expander is usually adjusted during regular visits to the orthodontist to ensure steady progress in widening the upper jaw.

Surgically Assisted Rapid Palate Expander (SARPE)

A surgically Assisted Rapid Palate Expander (SARPE) is a specialised type of expander used in adults whose jawbones are no longer malleable. It combines orthodontic treatment with minor oral surgery to weaken the bone around the upper jaw, allowing effective widening of the palate with an RME. This procedure is typically recommended for patients with severe jaw discrepancies or when traditional expansion methods are inadequate.