It’s important to properly care for your palatal expander to ensure it’s doing its job and staying in place.
Do you know what it means to care for your palatal expander? A palatal expander is a metal appliance that is found on the roof of your mouth to make room for your upper teeth and tongue by expanding your palate. To do this, the screw on the expander is usually turned at twice a day and must be worn for roughly six months before it can be removed. Typically, a palatal expander is needed when the upper jaw is more narrow than the lower jaw.
If you have a palatal expander or will be getting one soon, here are some tips to help you care for it, so you won’t have to wear it any longer as needed:
- Turn your expander as instructed by your orthodontist.
- After every time you eat, rinse your mouth with water to flush out food between the roof of your mouth and the expander.
- Brush your teeth and all around the expander, including all metal parts and screws.
- Avoid foods that are sticky or hard that can dislodge the expander.
If you have any other questions on how to care for your palatal expander, make sure to contact Rollins & Petersen Orthodontics today.
