Just 4 kiDDS Dentistry & Orthodontics

Expanders &
Pre-Orthodontia

Expanders & Pre-orthodontia

What is an expander?

An expander is an appliance used to correct a narrow palate or to correct a crossbite. Palatal expanders are a great tool that can help gain some extra room for permanent teeth for when a child is ready for orthodontic treatment.

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Expanders & Pre-orthodontia

Pre-Orthodontic Treatment

While traditional orthodontic treatment is to correct pre-existing bites and tooth placement, pre-orthodontic treatment (AKA pre-orthodontia) focuses on influencing the jaw and teeth to grow into the proper place.

Pre-orthodontic treatment also prevents future problems that can only be corrected through extensive orthodontic treatment or surgery.

If your child is a candidate for pre-orthodontic treatments, our dentist will let you know during your child’s routine exam.

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Expanders & Pre-Orthodontia

Frequently Asked Questions

If my child has pre-orthodontic treatment, will they need braces as a teenager?

Our dentist can figure out what your child needs during their routine exams. Some issues may correct themselves, so it's important to watch your child's development closely. The best way to know what their future treatment plans may be is to ensure your child makes it to their routine cleanings and exams.

Are expanders uncomfortable?

Expanders are not known to cause discomfort. The changes they influence in bone structure are minimal and over a long period of time.

How do you care for an expander?

Food can get caught in the expander, so it's important to stress oral hygeine while your child has the expander in. Daily brushing and flossing will keep your child's breath smelling great and the cavities away.

My child cannot speak properly with the expander, will this change?

It might take a little bit of time for your child to get used to having the expander in. Your child might experience speaking with a lisp or difficulty swallowing for a few days after installation. With time, your child will get used to the expander and not have any problems.

Parent Testimonials

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My children and I had an excellent experience at this office. The staff was friendly from the front office, the hygienists, and the dentist himself. They took their time to explain everything to me and interacted well with the children. The kids loved the theater experience and toys in the waiting room, and especially loved being able to watch a movie during their teeth cleaning. They have been asking to go back and were disappointed to have to wait another 6 months.

Kathryn Nielson

"The waiting room has a train table, video games, a doll house, and they have a theater room playing a movie. They also have tv screens above the chairs so the kids can watch while they get their teeth cleaned. The hygienist was so great with my kids; they were actually having fun. Highly recommended!”

Lindsey Augustine