Palate Expanders: A Key Step in Early Orthodontic Treatment
✅ Safe & Effective Jaw Expansion
✅ Ideal for Children & Early Orthodontic Treatment
✅ Creates Space for Permanent Teeth & Prevents Crowding
At Elate Orthodontics, we offer palate expanders as a crucial early intervention for children experiencing bite issues or dental crowding. A palate expander gradually widens the upper jaw, allowing for proper tooth alignment and reducing the need for extractions or surgery later in life.
We proudly serve patients across Frisco, The Colony, Prosper, Little Elm, Carrollton, Plano, Aubrey, and Lewisville, TX.
What Is a Palate Expander?
A palate expander is an orthodontic device used to gently widen the upper jaw. This treatment is most effective in children aged 7-10, while their jawbones are still developing. By expanding the upper jaw, we can:
✔ Correct bite misalignment (crossbite, underbite)
✔ Prevent dental crowding
✔ Improve breathing & facial development
Does My Child Need a Palate Expander?
Your child may need a palate expander if they experience:
🔹 Crossbite – When the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth instead of overlapping correctly.
🔹 Underbite – When the lower jaw extends forward more than the upper jaw.
🔹 Crowded Teeth – Not enough space for permanent teeth to come in.
🔹 Impacted Teeth – Creating space to help adult teeth erupt properly.
💡 Early detection is key! Schedule a free consultation today to see if a palate expander is right for your child.
👉 Schedule Your Consultation Now!
How Does a Palate Expander Work?
🔹 The expander is placed in the upper jaw and has a small screw in the center.
🔹 Parents turn the screw daily with a key, applying gentle pressure to gradually widen the jaw.
🔹 The process takes 4-6 months, depending on the child’s needs.
Common Concerns About Palate Expanders
🦷 Do Palate Expanders Hurt?
Mild pressure is normal after each adjustment, but it fades quickly. Most children adapt within a few days.
🦷 Will My Child’s Teeth Form a Gap?
Yes! As the jaw expands, a temporary gap may form between the front teeth. This is normal and will close naturally during treatment.
🦷 How Long Does a Palate Expander Stay In?
On average, 4-6 months, but this varies based on the child’s needs.
🔗 Read More: Everything Parents Need to Know About Palate Expanders
Why Are Palate Expanders Important?
🟢 Prevents Complex Dental Issues – Expanding the jaw early reduces the need for tooth extractions or surgery later.
🟢 Fixes Crossbites & Underbites – Prevents long-term bite problems.
🟢 Prepares for Braces – Creates the space needed for straight teeth.
🟢 Improves Facial Growth & Breathing – Helps develop a balanced jaw structure.
When Is the Right Age for a Palate Expander?
We typically recommend a palate expander between ages 7-10, while the jaw is still flexible. Early intervention ensures the best results!
What Happens After a Palate Expander?
Once the expander has widened the jaw, the next step is often braces or clear aligners to perfect tooth alignment.
📌 Expanders + Braces – Expands jaw space, then braces straighten teeth.
📌 Early Braces for Kids – Helps guide teeth into place early.
📌 Clear Aligners – Teens may transition to Invisalign® or Angel Aligners for a discreet option.
🔗 Read More: Braces vs. Invisalign for Teens: Choosing the Best Option
Why Choose Elate Orthodontics for Palate Expanders?
1️⃣ Expert Orthodontists You Can Trust
👨⚕️ Dr. Kevin Baharvand & 👩⚕️ Dr. Julia Kang specialize in early orthodontic care and provide personalized treatment plans for every patient.
2️⃣ Convenient Locations Across North Texas
📍 Frisco, The Colony, & Prosper – Serving families in:
✔ Frisco – Hollyhock & Tribute neighborhoods
✔ Prosper – Windsong Ranch, Rushing Middle School
✔ The Colony – Off Highway 121
✔ Nearby Areas – Little Elm, Carrollton, Plano, Aubrey, Lewisville
📌 Find a location near you: Elate Orthodontics Locations
3️⃣ Affordable Orthodontic Care
We believe every child deserves a confident smile! That’s why we offer:
✅ In-network with most insurance plans
✅ Flexible in-house financing
✅ Special Medicaid programs available
📌 Calculate your payment options now: Finance Calculator
Schedule Your Free Consultation Today!
A palate expander could be the key to ensuring healthy, properly aligned teeth for your child.
📍 Now accepting new patients in Frisco, The Colony, Prosper, Little Elm, Carrollton, Plano, Aubrey & Lewisville!
📞 Call Now: 972.538.4343
📅 Book Online: 👉 Schedule Your Free Consultation!
✅ FAQ for Palate Expander
How painful is a palate expander?
Palate expanders may cause mild pressure or tightness, especially after activation, but they’re not typically painful. Most kids adjust within a few days.
Is a palate expander worth it?
Yes — expanders help create room for permanent teeth, improve bite alignment, and may reduce the need for extractions or surgery later.
How fast does a palate expander work?
Expansion typically occurs over 2–4 weeks, with total time in the appliance lasting around 4–6 months to stabilize results.
How much do palate expanders cost?
The cost ranges from $1,000 to $2,500, depending on your child’s needs and treatment plan. We offer flexible financing and accept most insurance.
What age is too late for palate expanders?
Expanders work best before age 13–14, when the upper jaw bones are still developing. After that, surgery may be required for expansion.
What are the disadvantages of expanders?
Temporary challenges include:
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Speech adjustment
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Eating difficulties
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Mild pressure or discomfort
But the long-term benefits outweigh these short-term inconveniences.
Do kids really need palate expanders?
Not every child needs one, but it can be critical for correcting:
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Crossbites
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Crowding
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Narrow upper jaws
We’ll assess whether your child would benefit at their consultation.
Does palate expander change shape face?
A palate expander can enhance facial balance by widening the upper jaw. Changes are subtle and usually positive, improving smile width and breathing.
Why is it so hard to eat with an expander?
The expander covers part of the roof of the mouth, making chewing and swallowing slightly awkward at first. Most kids adapt within 1–2 weeks.
Can you eat pizza with expanders?
Yes — but stick to soft-crust pizza and avoid tough or chewy toppings. Cut it into small bites for easier chewing.
What happens if you don’t get a palate expander?
Without expansion, some kids may experience:
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Severe crowding
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Misaligned bites
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Jaw issues
Early treatment can prevent more complex interventions later.
How to swallow saliva with palate expander?
Swallowing may feel awkward initially, but kids learn to push the tongue around the expander or use the sides of the mouth instead.
Can you eat popcorn with expanders?
No — popcorn kernels can get stuck under the expander and cause irritation or infection. Avoid it during treatment.
Does a palate expander give you a lisp?
Yes — a slight lisp is common when the expander is first placed. Speech typically normalizes within 1–2 weeks.
How can I make my palate expander more comfortable?
Use orthodontic wax for any irritation, follow soft food diets in the first week, and maintain good hygiene to prevent soreness.
How long does it take to talk normal with a palate expander?
Most kids speak clearly again within 5 to 10 days after getting the expander.
Can you eat peanut butter with a palate expander?
Avoid sticky peanut butter — it can cling to the appliance. Choose smooth, thin spreads or dilute it with jelly or on soft bread.
Can you eat Oreos while having braces?
Yes, but let them soak in milk or break them into small soft pieces to avoid damaging brackets.
Can you eat cheerios with braces?
Yes, especially if they’ve soaked in milk for a minute to soften them.
Can you drink soda with spacers?
It’s best to avoid soda, which can irritate gums and increase cavity risk. If consumed, brush afterward.
How to eat burgers with braces?
Cut burgers into smaller pieces and chew gently with back teeth. Avoid thick buns or tough meat.
Can you eat McDonald’s chicken nuggets with braces?
Yes — they’re soft and safe. Just avoid the crunchy breading or large bites.
Can I eat Whoppers with braces?
It’s best to avoid sticky candy like Whoppers, as they can loosen brackets and get stuck.
Can you eat ramen with braces?
Yes! Ramen is soft and braces-friendly — just avoid crunchy add-ins or very hot temperatures.
Can you eat Ritz crackers with braces?
Yes, especially if you break them into smaller pieces and chew slowly to avoid putting pressure on brackets.
How to eat Doritos with braces?
Avoid them if possible — they’re sharp and can break brackets. If you must, let them soften in your mouth before chewing.
Can you eat Mexican food with braces?
Yes — soft options like rice, beans, tortillas, enchiladas, or tamales are all braces-friendly. Avoid hard shells and crunchy chips.