Expanders
Creating Space for Healthy Smiles and Proper Development
At Viva Orthodontics, palatal expanders are one of the most effective orthodontic appliances we use to address crowding, bite issues, and airway concerns in growing patients. Dr. Jason Gallant and Dr. Kimberly Hodder have helped countless families across Clayton Heights, Coquitlam, New Westminster, and South Surrey achieve healthier smiles through the strategic use of expanders.
Expanders work by gently widening the upper jaw, creating more room for teeth to align properly and improving overall oral function. This early intervention approach can often prevent the need for more extensive orthodontic treatment later, including tooth extractions.
What Are Orthodontic Expanders?
Orthodontic expanders, also called palatal expanders or rapid palatal expanders (RPE), are specialized appliances designed to gradually widen the upper jaw (maxilla). The upper jaw consists of two separate bones that don't fully fuse until after puberty. By applying gentle, consistent pressure, an expander can separate these bones and stimulate new bone growth, permanently widening the arch.
This expansion creates additional space in the mouth, which can help:
Eliminate dental crowding without extractions
Correct crossbites and improve bite alignment
Improve breathing and nasal airway function
Create room for permanent teeth to erupt properly
Enhance facial symmetry and development
Reduce the overall length and complexity of orthodontic treatment
Types of Expanders We Offer
At our four convenient locations throughout the Greater Vancouver area, we customize expander treatment to meet each patient's unique needs. The most common types of expanders include:
Rapid Palatal Expander (RPE)
The most common type, a rapid palatal expander is fixed to the upper molars and uses a special key or mechanism to activate expansion. Parents typically turn the expander once or twice daily according to our specific instructions. Treatment usually takes several weeks, followed by a retention period to allow new bone to stabilize.
Removable Expanders
For younger patients or less severe cases, we may recommend a removable expander that can be taken out for eating and cleaning. While these offer more flexibility, they require excellent patient compliance to be effective.
Mini-Screw Assisted Rapid Palatal Expander (MARPE)
For older teens and adults whose jaw bones have already fused, we may use a mini-screw assisted expander. This advanced technique uses small, temporary implants to achieve expansion even after skeletal maturity.
Who Needs an Expander?
Expanders are most effective in children and young teenagers whose jaws are still growing. However, the specific timing depends on individual development. Here are common situations where we may recommend an expander:
Significant dental crowding where teeth don't have enough room to align
Crossbites, where upper teeth bite inside lower teeth
Narrow dental arches that restrict tongue space and breathing
Difficulty breathing through the nose
Impacted or blocked permanent teeth
Severe overbites or underbites related to jaw width
During your consultation at any of our Clayton Heights, Coquitlam, New Westminster, or South Surrey locations, our orthodontists will conduct a thorough examination to determine if an expander is the right solution for your child.
Benefits of Early Expansion Treatment
Choosing to use an expander during childhood offers numerous advantages over waiting until all permanent teeth have erupted:
Prevents Tooth Extractions
By creating adequate space early, we can often eliminate the need to extract healthy permanent teeth to address crowding.
Improves Breathing and Airway Function
A wider palate means more room for the nasal passages, which can significantly improve breathing, reduce mouth breathing, and help with sleep quality.
Reduces Treatment Time
Addressing jaw width issues early can shorten the overall duration of comprehensive orthodontic treatment and reduce complexity.
Enhances Facial Development
Proper jaw width supports balanced facial growth and can prevent asymmetry or underdeveloped facial features.
Corrects Functional Issues Early
Crossbites and bite problems can cause uneven tooth wear, TMJ issues, and difficulty chewing. Early correction prevents these complications.
Creates a Stable Foundation
Expansion in growing patients produces permanent results that provide a solid foundation for future orthodontic treatment if needed.
What to Expect During Expander Treatment
Understanding the expander process helps families feel confident and prepared. Here's what you can expect when your child receives an expander at Viva Orthodontics:
Initial Consultation and Fitting
We'll take detailed records including X-rays, photos, and impressions or digital scans. Once the custom expander is ready, we'll fit it carefully and show you and your child how to activate it at home.
Daily Activation
Most expanders require activation (turning) once or twice per day using a special key. We'll provide clear instructions and demonstrations. The process takes just seconds and becomes routine quickly.
What Your Child May Experience
It's normal for your child to experience some initial sensations during the first few days, including:
- Pressure or tightness after each activation (this is a good sign that it's working)
- Slight discomfort that can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief if needed
- Increased saliva production initially
- Difficulty speaking clearly for the first few days (this improves rapidly)
- A small gap appearing between the front teeth (this is expected and will close later)
Dietary Considerations
We recommend sticking to soft foods for the first few days while your child adjusts. Avoid sticky, hard, or chewy foods that could damage the expander. Foods to enjoy include:
- Soft fruits like bananas, berries, and applesauce
- Yogurt, pudding, and smoothies
- Scrambled eggs and oatmeal
- Pasta, rice, and mashed potatoes
- Soft-cooked vegetables
- Soups and protein shakes
Retention Phase
Once we've achieved the desired expansion (typically after 2-4 weeks of activation), the expander stays in place for several months while new bone fills in the gap. This stabilization period is crucial for permanent results.
Caring for Your Expander
Proper care ensures the best results and prevents complications:
- Brush thoroughly after every meal, paying special attention to the area around the expander
- Use a water flosser or proxy brush to clean under and around the appliance
- Rinse with water after snacks
- Avoid sticky candies, gum, hard candy, ice, and hard nuts
- Bring your expander key to every appointment
- Call us immediately if the expander feels loose or causes pain
Our team will provide detailed care instructions and is always available to answer questions at any of our four locations.
Expanders and Comprehensive Orthodontic Care
Expansion treatment is often the first phase of a comprehensive orthodontic treatment plan. After expansion is complete and the retention period has ended, we'll evaluate whether your child is ready for braces or Invisalign, or if it's better to wait until more permanent teeth have erupted.
This two-phase approach allows us to:
- Address skeletal and jaw problems early when they're easiest to correct
- Take advantage of growth and development
- Simplify later treatment and potentially shorten treatment time
- Achieve more stable, comprehensive results
Why Choose Viva Orthodontics for Expander Treatment?
Experienced Specialists: Dr. Gallant and Dr. Hodder are Certified Specialists in Orthodontics with extensive experience in growth modification and early interceptive treatment.
Personalized Care: We take time to explain the process, answer your questions, and ensure both parents and patients feel comfortable and confident.
Advanced Technology: We use digital scanning and 3D imaging to plan precise, effective expansion treatment.
Family-Friendly Environment: Our offices are designed to make children feel comfortable and excited about their orthodontic journey.
Convenient Locations: With offices in Clayton Heights, Coquitlam, New Westminster, and South Surrey, quality care is always nearby.
Comprehensive Approach: We consider airway health, facial development, and long-term stability in all our treatment planning.
Common Questions About Expanders
Schedule Your Expander Consultation
If your child shows signs of dental crowding, crossbite, or breathing difficulties, early evaluation is key. The ideal time for expansion treatment is typically between ages 7-14, but every child develops differently.
Contact Viva Orthodontics today to schedule a consultation at one of our four convenient locations. We'll assess your child's development, discuss whether an expander is appropriate, and create a personalized treatment plan for optimal results.
Contact Us
We are dedicated to providing the highest standard of care while creating a fun and positive atmosphere for you and your family. Our facilities include fresh coffee or tea, current magazines, and video games. With four locations in Vancouver, BC, your orthodontic care can be more convenient than you ever thought possible.
Viva Orthodontics Locations