The Invisalign Palatal Expander is an innovative, removable device designed to comfortably widen the upper jaw, creating space for your adult teeth to align properly. Best used in growing children, it can help create more room and can be the first step to better alignment in your child's jaw.
Understanding Your Invisalign Palatal Expander - How does it work?
Your Invisalign Palatal Expander works by applying gentle, gradual pressure to widen your upper jaw (palate). It is a series of 3D-printed expanders changed regularly, with each one being slightly wider than the last. This creates space for new bone to grow and your palate will expand gradually. With more space, your child's adult teeth can be aligned properly!
How often do I have to wear it?
Wear your expanders all the time (Almost!). Aim for 22 hours of daily wear, including when you eat or drink. Onlyremove the expanders for brushing and flossing your teeth.
Changing your expanders
You will start with Stage 0 to get used to the first expander and switch to the next tomorrow. Your paediatric dentist/orthodontist will advise you how often to switch (every day or every few days). The best time to change to a new set is at night before bed. This allows your mouth to adjust to the new tighter expander while you sleep - so you'll feel more comfortable by morning! Never skip expanders, even if a new set doesn't feel tight.
Can I eat with the expander?
Yes! Go ahead and eat and drink with your expander in. It may take some getting used to, so start with softer foods and smaller bites. Do stay away from hard, sugary or sticky foods (including chewing gum) as these can damage your expander or teeth!
How do I clean the expander?
Brush and floss your teeth thoroughly before inserting each new expander. Brush your expander gently over all surfaces with a soft toothbrush and toothpaste. Rinse with cool/lukewarm water. Do NOT use hot water.
What should I expect to feel when I start wearing the expander?
It's normal to feel some pressure and tightness when youfirst start wearing the expander and each time you switch to a new one. You may feel a temporary increase in saliva in your mouth and your speech may even sound a little funny. Your tongue is just getting used to this new appliance. Rest assured these usually fade on their own after an initial adjustment period.
Why do I see gaps between my teeth?
Little gaps opening up between your teeth means the expander is working! As the expander opens up more space in your upper jaw, these gaps will naturally appear. These spaces are typically closed during the subsequent orthodontic phase (e.g Invisalign aligners).
I have an important school presentation/exam. Can I remove it?
It is acceptable to remove the expander only if absolutely necessary. Do bring a designated case to store it and reinsert itimmediately once the task is completed. NEVER store it in tissue paper -this is the most common way for it to be accidentally misplaced or thrown away. If you find that the expander fits poorly after (depending how long it has been out of the mouth for), do contact us for further advice.
Should I throw away my old expanders?
Please keep all old expanders ( wash, dry and put them back in their respective plastic bags to prevent mixing them up ) as they may come in handy. Why? The next tip will explain further...
My expander feels loose. What should I do?
1. Ensure all attachments (small tooth-colored bumps onyour back teeth) are still in place - these help hold the expander securely. These may occasionally come off after repeated expander insertions and need to be re-bonded. Please call us if the above is noted.
OR
2. Try on the most recently worn expander again. (eg.Re-try 19 if expander 20 feels loose). If the fit feels better, wear it for a few days again, before trying to size up again.
I lost/broke my expander. What should I do?
Contact us as soon as possible for advice. We may adviseyou to wear the previous or the next expander or other steps to take.
This is the most IMPORTANT tip to understand...
The newly expanding palate is partly made of new bonewhich is prone to shrinkage. Why? New bone that is laid down is soft and immature initially. Thus, during active expansion, once an expander is not worn for a period of time, the jaw may shrink slightly, causing your current expander to fit poorly.
Consistent wear is the best way to ensure a smooth journey and a successful result!