Palatal Expander

A palatal expander is fixed to the upper back teeth and contains a small screw in the centre that the patient or parent turns daily with a key. Each turn applies gentle outward pressure that gradually separates the two halves of the maxilla at the midpalatal suture, widening the upper arch. Expanders are most effective in growing children, before the suture fuses in late adolescence. They are used to correct posterior crossbites, create space for crowded teeth, and improve nasal airflow. Treatment typically takes a few weeks of active expansion followed by several months of retention while new bone fills in.