A confident young woman in a striped shirt smiles after her palate expander at Carpinello Orthodontics in Drexel Hill, Newtown Square or Edgmont, PA.
A woman smiles at the camera, showing her palate expander from Carpinello Orthodontics in Drexel Hill, Newtown Square or Edgmont, PA.
Smiling woman and girl with curly hair, girl's palate expander visible, at Carpinello Orthodontics in Drexel Hill, Newtown Square or Edgmont, PA.

What is a Palatal Expander?

At Carpinello Orthodontics in Drexel Hill, Newtown Square, and Edgmont, Dr. Paul Carpinello and Dr. David Carpinello provide expert treatment with palatal expanders, a cutting-edge orthodontic device. A palatal expander, also known as a rapid palatal expander (RPE), is a personalized appliance crafted to gently widen the upper jaw over time. This process not only enhances tooth alignment but also promotes a more balanced bite.

Types and Mechanism of Palatal Expanders

Our practice provides several types of palatal expanders, each designed to address different dental needs.

Rapid Palatal Expander (RPE)

Ideal for younger patients, this classic appliance is secured to the molars and utilizes a unique screw mechanism to ensure accurate adjustments. It works best before the palatal suture fully hardens, emphasizing the importance of starting treatment early.

Bone-Borne Expanders

These expanders utilize innovative miniscrew technology to address complex dental needs, such as cleft palates. They are highly effective for older teens and adults who require structural corrections and advanced orthodontic solutions.

Miniscrew-Assisted RPE (MARPE)

Perfect for older teens and adults, this advanced technique employs mini-implants to enable precise skeletal expansion while minimizing unwanted dental movement.

The Process of Impression or Scan and Placement of Separators

We use modern technology to ensure maximum comfort and accuracy throughout your treatment.

Impression and Digital Scan

We’ve transitioned from traditional impression techniques to state-of-the-art digital scanning, offering our patients a more comfortable process and delivering exceptional precision for your custom expander creation.

Placement of Spacers or Separators

Before fitting your expander, if necessary, we carefully place separators to create adequate space between teeth. Our gentle approach minimizes discomfort while ensuring optimal results. This may not be needed in certain types.

Advantages of 3D Printed Appliances 
and Digital Scans

We take pride in utilizing advanced technology to craft precisely fitted expanders, minimizing the need for adjustments and prioritizing optimal comfort for our patients.

Digital Workflow in Palatal Expander Fabrication

Our clinic employs advanced digital techniques to design virtual models of your mouth, guaranteeing that every palatal expander is tailored precisely to fit your individual dental needs.

Effectiveness and Outcomes

Treatment for maxillary deficiencies has proven to be highly effective, especially in encouraging skeletal development during key growth periods. Expanding the palate can enhance nasal airflow, providing significant benefits for individuals with habitual mouth-breathing patterns.

Palate Expanders, Airway Improvement, Snoring and Sleep Apnea

Beyond enhancing dental alignment, palatal expanders play a crucial role in improving airflow and overall sleep quality. Numerous patients have reported reduced snoring and more restful sleep following their treatment.

Impact on Speech and Comfort

Although there is often a short adjustment phase, patients usually get used to their palatal expanders quickly. Our team offers full support to ensure a smooth and comfortable treatment experience.

Impact on Sleep Apnea and Snoring

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a condition involving airway blockages during sleep, often leading to snoring and breathing disruptions. Palatal expanders can help alleviate these issues by increasing upper airway space, enhancing airflow, and reducing resistance.

Clinical Evidence

Research has demonstrated that specific airway expansion methods can greatly reduce sleep apnea symptoms in adults, emphasizing their effectiveness in addressing sleep-related breathing difficulties.

Early Orthodontic Intervention

Early orthodontic intervention is crucial, particularly during childhood. By addressing issues such as palate narrowing early, it not only prevents crowded teeth but also minimizes breathing problems and lowers the risk of future conditions like sleep apnea.

Importance of Comprehensive Diagnosis

Advanced 3D imaging is essential for identifying airway issues, offering a detailed look at the structure of the airway and enabling the development of accurate and effective treatment plans.

Conclusion

At Carpinello Orthodontics in Drexel Hill, Newtown Square, and Edgmont, Dr. Paul Carpinello and Dr. David Carpinello, along with their skilled team, are committed to providing outstanding orthodontic care through individualized treatment plans. By integrating cutting-edge technology with advanced techniques, we deliver exceptional results for every patient. Contact us today to schedule your free orthodontic consultation and start your journey toward a healthier, more confident smile.

FAQ

How long does it take to see results with a palatal expander?

Most patients begin to notice visible improvements within just a few weeks of starting treatment. However, the complete expansion process typically takes between 3 to 6 months, depending on the individual’s specific dental needs and treatment objectives.

Will wearing a palatal expander be painful?

Wearing a palatal expander may cause mild discomfort initially, particularly as the device begins applying pressure to widen the upper jaw. This sensation is temporary and can usually be alleviated with over-the-counter pain medications. Our team is dedicated to providing detailed care instructions and ongoing support to ensure you remain as comfortable as possible throughout the treatment process.