Early Braces and Expanders in Arlington, VA
Make sure your child's jaw and tooth development are appropriate at the Virginia Center for Orthodontics.
The American Academy of Orthodontists recommends that every child see an orthodontist around the age of 7 years. Dr. Markova will check to make sure that adult teeth are coming in without problems and check the growth of the jaws and face.
Sometimes, the upper jaw does not grow enough and a child needs an expander or spacer. This is common and something that needs to be done in a younger child since we cannot fix this later on as the child enters their teen years.
Watch one of our cute patients describe her experience with mini braces and an expander!
Fixing Bite with an expander
What is early orthodontic treatment?
Early orthodontic treatment, also called Phase 1 orthodontic treatment or interceptive orthodontics, is orthodontic treatment that begins while a child still has some baby teeth, usually between ages 7 and 10. The goal of early orthodontic treatment is not always to fully straighten the teeth, but to guide jaw growth, create space for permanent teeth, correct bite problems early, and prevent more serious orthodontic problems later. Early orthodontic treatment can sometimes reduce the need for tooth extractions or jaw surgery in the future.
Expanders Frequently Asked Questions
At what age should a child see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation around age 7. At this age, the orthodontist can evaluate jaw growth, crowding, bite problems, and how permanent teeth are coming in. Even if no treatment is needed right away, early evaluation allows the orthodontist to monitor growth and determine the best time to start treatment if needed.
What problems can early orthodontic treatment fix?
Early orthodontic treatment can help correct many orthodontic problems while a child is still growing. These include severe crowding, narrow upper jaw, crossbite, underbite, overbite, thumb sucking effects, impacted teeth, and early or late loss of baby teeth. Treating these problems early can guide proper jaw development and make future orthodontic treatment easier and shorter.
What is a palatal expander?
A palatal expander, also called an orthodontic expander or rapid palatal expander, is a device used to widen the upper jaw. The expander is attached to the upper molars and gradually widens the palate by gently separating the mid-palatal suture as a child grows. This creates more space for permanent teeth and can correct crossbites and narrow arches.
Why would a child need an expander?
A child may need a palatal expander if they have a narrow upper jaw, crowding, crossbite, impacted teeth, or breathing issues related to a narrow palate. Expanding the upper jaw can create space for teeth to come in properly, improve bite alignment, and sometimes improve airflow through the nose. Palatal expanders are most effective while children are still growing because the jaw bones are more responsive to expansion.
How does a palatal expander work?
A palatal expander works using a small screw in the center of the appliance that is turned slightly each day using a special key. Each turn widens the upper jaw a very small amount. Over time, this gradually expands the palate and creates more space for permanent teeth. Expansion usually takes a few weeks, and the expander stays in place for several months afterward to allow new bone to form and stabilize the expansion.
Does a palatal expander hurt?
Most children do not experience pain with a palatal expander, but they may feel pressure or tightness for a few minutes after the expander is turned. Some children also notice a temporary gap forming between the front teeth during expansion, which is normal and shows that the expander is working. This gap usually closes later during orthodontic treatment.
How long does early orthodontic treatment take?
Early orthodontic treatment typically lasts about 9 to 12 months, depending on the orthodontic problem being treated. After Phase 1 treatment is complete, the orthodontist will monitor growth and usually recommend Phase 2 treatment (full braces or Invisalign) once all permanent teeth have erupted, typically in the early teenage years.
Will my child still need braces after early orthodontic treatment?
Many children will still need braces or Invisalign after early orthodontic treatment, but Phase 1 treatment often makes Phase 2 treatment shorter, easier, and less complicated. Early orthodontic treatment focuses on jaw growth and bite correction, while later treatment focuses on final tooth alignment and bite finishing.
What are the benefits of early orthodontic treatment?
Early orthodontic treatment can guide jaw growth, create space for permanent teeth, reduce crowding, correct crossbites and underbites, reduce risk of trauma to protruding front teeth, improve facial balance, and potentially prevent more complicated orthodontic treatment later. In some cases, early treatment can reduce the need for tooth extractions or jaw surgery.
Is early orthodontic treatment necessary for every child?
Not every child needs early orthodontic treatment. Some children benefit from waiting until all permanent teeth come in before starting orthodontic treatment. The best way to determine whether early orthodontic treatment is needed is to schedule an orthodontic evaluation around age 7 so the orthodontist can monitor growth and development.
What is Phase 1 and Phase 2 orthodontic treatment?
Phase 1 orthodontic treatment refers to early treatment performed while a child still has baby teeth and permanent teeth. This phase focuses on jaw growth and bite correction. Phase 2 orthodontic treatment occurs later when all permanent teeth have erupted and typically involves braces or Invisalign to straighten teeth and finalize the bite.