Palatal Expander

 

Palatal Expander Care & Instructions

The palatal expander gently widens your upper jaw by applying pressure to your upper molars each time you make an adjustment. This helps create more space for your teeth and improves your bite.

Below, you’ll find an animation demonstrating when and how to adjust your expander step-by-step.

Once you reach the desired expansion, you’ll continue wearing the expander for several months to stabilize the new width and prevent it from reverting back.

 

Adjusting the palatal expander

You can also download these instructions in a printable PDF document.

Step 1

In a well-lit area, tip the patient's head back.

Step 2

Place the key in the hole until it is firmly in place.

Step 3

Push the key toward the back of the mouth. You will notice the fender will rotate and the new hole will appear. The rotation stops when the key meets the back of the expander.

Step 4

Press back and down toward the tongue to remove the key. The next hole for insertion of the key should now be visible.