Invisalign Palatal Expander®
Discover the Invisalign Palatal Expander for Kids
At San Marcos Kids Dentistry, we are thrilled to offer the innovative Invisalign Palatal Expander® System for children aged 6 to 11. As a certified Invisalign provider, we are committed to providing this advanced treatment option to our young patients, ensuring a comfortable and effective experience.
Why Choose the Invisalign Palatal Expander?
- Enhanced Comfort: Traditional metal expanders can be uncomfortable for children. The Invisalign Palatal Expander features a screw-free design, providing a more comfortable experience.
- Proven Effectiveness: This system has been clinically tested and is proven to be both safe and effective. It delivers reliable results without the need for daily adjustments, which are often required by older devices.
- Reduced Anxiety: Orthodontists at San Marcos Kids Dentistry, who are trained in Invisalign technology, have found that this expander significantly reduces patient anxiety compared to conventional expanders.
How Does the Invisalign Palatal Expander® Work?
The Invisalign Palatal Expander uses a series of custom-fit expanders that are 3D-printed to gradually widen the palate. This approach eliminates manual adjustments, helping make the process less stressful and more comfortable for children.
What Are the Benefits of the Invisalign Palatal Expander®?
This system offers several advantages that many families appreciate.
Benefits include:
No Daily Adjustments: Unlike traditional expanders, there is no daily screw-turning, creating a smoother experience for both kids and parents.
FDA-Cleared and Effective: It is the only FDA-cleared removable palatal expander, with effectiveness comparable to traditional expanders.
Easy Maintenance: Because it is removable, children can brush and floss more easily without metal interference.
What Features Make This Expander Kid-Friendly?
The Invisalign Palatal Expander is designed with kids and families in mind.
Features include:
Child-Friendly Design: Many children can manage the expander independently, and it fits comfortably into daily routines.
No Food Restrictions: Since it is removable, kids can enjoy their favorite foods without limitations.
Fewer Emergency Visits: With no metal or wires, there is less risk of orthodontic emergencies or unexpected visits.
What Does the Invisalign Palatal Expander® Cost?
The investment in the Invisalign Palatal Expander can be made easier with flexible payment options, including potential dental insurance coverage. We encourage families to contact our office so we can review available options and help determine the best plan for your needs.
Palatal Expanders
One significant benefit of orthodontic treatment during childhood is the ability to take advantage of a child’s natural growth to treat or even prevent malocclusions, commonly known as “bad bites.” At San Marcos Kids Dentistry, we frequently use palatal expanders as part of this process.
Palatal expanders are a common tool in orthodontics. They work by gradually widening the upper jaw, which creates more space in a child’s mouth. Although there may be initial concerns about the procedure, patients generally find it easy to tolerate.
When Might a Child Need Maxillary Expansion?
There are three common situations where expansion may be recommended:
- Crossbite: When the upper jaw is too narrow to align properly with the lower jaw, the upper back teeth may bite inside the lower teeth. Expansion helps correct this.
- Crowding: Even before all permanent teeth erupt, it may be predicted that there won’t be enough space. Expansion can create room without tooth extractions.
- Impacted Teeth: A tooth may fail to erupt because it is blocked by other teeth. Expansion can help allow the impacted tooth to emerge properly, often with canine teeth.
How Do Traditional Expanders Work?
A traditional expander is a custom appliance that fits over several of the back teeth in the upper jaw. It is made of two halves connected by a central screw.
To activate the expander, a special key is used to turn the screw slightly each day. This creates tension at the junction of the palatal bones, gradually moving them apart. After the desired expansion is reached, the appliance stays in place for a few more months so new bone can form and stabilize the result.
Most expanders are worn for a total of 3 to 6 months.
What Can My Child Expect While Wearing an Expander?
After activation, your child may feel soreness or pressure for a few minutes. This discomfort is usually mild and less intense than when braces are tightened.
During the early adjustment period:
- Speaking may feel different
- Eating may feel different
- The tongue may need time to adapt
It is also normal for a gap to appear between the front teeth. This is often a sign that the expander is working properly. The long-term goal is to create healthy spacing so permanent teeth can align beautifully.
How Do We Get Started?
San Marcos Kids Dentistry is committed to providing advanced orthodontic solutions that are effective and comfortable for children. If you would like to learn more about expanders or the Invisalign Palatal Expander® System, contact our office to schedule a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Palatal expanders often raise questions for parents who want to understand how expansion works, what their child will experience, and which option is best. Below are answers to common questions families ask.
How Do You Decide Between a Traditional Expander and the Invisalign Palatal Expander®?
The choice depends on your child’s growth stage, dental needs, and comfort preferences, which we evaluate during consultation.
Will My Child Need to Wear the Expander All Day?
Some expanders are worn full-time, while removable options like Invisalign Palatal Expander® allow short removal periods.
How Long Does Palatal Expansion Usually Take?
Active expansion typically lasts a few weeks, followed by several months of stabilization to maintain results.
Can My Child Attend School and Activities With an Expander?
Yes. Most children adjust quickly and continue school, sports, and daily activities without major disruption.
Does Palatal Expansion Always Replace the Need for Braces?
Not always. Expansion often prepares the mouth for future orthodontic treatment, making it simpler and more effective.
