العربية
In growing children and adolescents, whose bones are still malleable, the development of the upper jaw becomes abnormal. This happens due to maxillary deficiency, prolonged thumb-sucking, poor swallowing habits, and genetic predispositions which lead to underdeveloped upper jaw, crowding and misaligned teeth, and bad bites. However, this abnormal growth of the jaw can be corrected with a tailored jaw expander treatment. Read on to learn!
What is Jaw Expander Treatment?
Jaw expander, also known as palate expander or maxillary treatment, is a non-surgical orthodontic procedure that aims to widen the underdeveloped upper jaw. A jaw expander is a custom-fitted device placed on the roof of the mouth and gradually adjusted over time to widen the narrow upper jaw, creating more space for teeth alignment and improving the overall bite.
The treatment is particularly common. However, Jaw expanders can help improve breathing, correct crossbites, and enhance overall dental function.
Who Needs This Treatment?
Jaw expander treatment is typically recommended by orthodontists for individuals who have a narrow upper jaw, also called maxillary constriction. It is often used for:
Jaw expansion is more effective in younger patients. However, it can also be performed in adults, although the process is slightly more complex and might take longer. People with the following conditions can consider jaw expander treatment to alleviate their symptoms.
- People with crossbite issues
- People with sleep apnea or breathing problems due to closed airways
- Adults with significant bite issues or breathing difficulties
- When there isn’t enough space in the mouth for teeth to align properly, a jaw expander can create more room, facilitating better alignment.
What are the Benefits of Palate Expander?
The benefits of palate expander treatment extend beyond aesthetics as it provides both functional and health improvements to an individual. Some of the primary benefits include:
- By expanding the jaw, jaw expander creates more space for the teeth, reducing crowding and ensuring they can align properly during braces or other orthodontic treatments.
- Expanding the upper jaw helps to correct crossbites, underbites, or overbites. This ensures better jaw function and reduces wear and tear on the teeth.
- Patients suffering from sleep apnea or breathing issues due to a narrow jaw may experience relief as the expanded jaw improves airway flow.
- Jaw expanders are often used before braces to set the stage for more effective orthodontic treatment.
- Widening the jaw can improve facial symmetry and appearance by harmonizing the relationship between the jaws and other facial features.
How to Prepare for Jaw Expander Treatment?
Consultation
Before undergoing jaw expander treatment, a consultation with an orthodontist is essential. During this visit, the Airway dentist will take X-rays, photographs, and dental impressions to evaluate the patient’s jaw structure and determine if a jaw expander is necessary. Once the doctor confirms the usage of jaw expander is suitable for the patient’s case, he will start creating a custom-fitted expander.
The expander is made from a combination of metal and acrylic and is designed to fit snugly against the roof of the mouth. The Airway dentist will then explain the procedure, its benefits, and any potential risks to ensure the patient is fully informed.
Patients are encouraged to maintain good oral hygiene before the procedure, as a healthy mouth is critical for successful treatment. Any existing dental issues, such as cavities or gum disease, should be addressed before starting the treatment.
What Happens During the Procedure?
The process of fitting a jaw expander is simple and typically does not require surgery. Here’s what to expect during the procedure:
Once the custom expander is ready, the orthodontist will cement it onto the molars using special dental adhesive. Denture adhesives are pastes powders that are placed on dentures to help them stay in place.
The expander consists of two halves connected by a screw in the center. The patient or the guardian will be instructed on how to turn the screw using a small key to gradually widen the jaw.
The expander is activated by turning the screw according to the Airway dentist’s instructions, usually once or twice daily. This gradual adjustment applies gentle pressure to the palatal bones, encouraging them to separate and widen the upper jaw.
Typically, the adjustment phase lasts a few weeks to a few months, depending on the degree of expansion required.
What to Expect After the Procedure?
After the expander is in place and the patient begins turning the screw, some initial discomfort and pressure in the jaw, teeth, or nose is common. This sensation typically subsides within a few days as the mouth adjusts to the device.
Patients may also notice a gap developing between their two front teeth. This is a normal part of the process and indicates that the jaw is expanding correctly. The gap will close naturally over time as the teeth move into their proper positions with the help of orthodontic treatment.
Patients should expect regular follow-up visits with the orthodontist to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.
What Does the Recovery Include?
After the treatment, patients can expect some soreness or pressure in the days following each adjustment. However, with prescribed medications, this discomfort can be managed.
The recovery process for jaw expander treatment is relatively smooth and once your orthodontist feels that the desired expansion is achieved, they will remove the expander.
Post-Procedure Care of Jaw Expanders
Caring for a jaw expander involves maintaining excellent oral hygiene and following the orthodontist’s instructions closely. Patients should:
- Turn the expander’s screw according to the orthodontist’s schedule to ensure proper jaw expansion
- Brush and Floss Regularly
- Avoid hard or sticky foods
- Eat soft foods
Results
The final result of jaw expander varies among individuals depending on age and treatment plan. Usually, results may occur faster in children than adults. This is because the children have more pliable bone structures. Generally, the results take 3-6 months in children and 6-12 months in adults to become noticeable.
How Much Does Jaw Expander Cost in Dubai?
The starting cost of jaw expander in Dubai is AED 8,500. However, the final cost depends on several factors, including:
- Quality of the expanders used in the treatment
- Expertise of the practitioner
- Geographical location of the clinic
What are the Complications Associated with Jaw Expander?
Jaw expander treatment is generally safe and effective. However, there are some potential complications that you need to be mentally prepared for, including:
- Poor oral hygiene or improper cleaning can lead to gum infections or irritation around the expander.
- For a temporary period, some patients may struggle with speech while adjusting to the expander. This is usually temporary.
- If the expander is removed too soon, or if proper follow-up care is not taken, the expansion may not hold, causing the jaw to revert to its original position.
- Some patients may have allergic reactions to the materials used in the expander.
Consultation
For more information and consultation, please call Euromed Clinic at +971 4 394 5422. You can also book your appointment via WhatsApp using the same number.
