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Palate Expanders and Children’s Braces: Everything Prosper, TX Parents Need to Know
Palate Expanders and Children’s Braces: Everything Prosper, TX Parents Need to Know
January 19, 2025

Palate Expanders and Children’s Braces: Everything Prosper, TX Parents Need to Know

At Elate Orthodontics, we specialize in providing exceptional orthodontic care for kids, teens, and adults. For children with developing orthodontic issues, a palate expander is often the first step toward achieving a healthy, aligned smile. Whether your child is dealing with a crossbite, underbite, or preparing for braces, our team in Prosper, Frisco, and The Colony, TX, is here to help.


What Is a Palate Expander?

A palate expander is an orthodontic device used to gradually widen the upper jaw. This treatment is especially effective for children whose jaws are still developing, helping to create space for incoming teeth and correcting bite issues. A palate expander is often recommended as a precursor to braces for optimal results.

When Is a Palate Expander Needed?

A palate expander may be recommended for children with:

  • Crossbite: When the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth rather than overlapping correctly.
  • Underbite: When the lower jaw extends farther forward than the upper jaw.
  • Crowding: To create space for adult teeth to erupt properly.

How Does a Palate Expander Work?

The expander is placed in the upper jaw and features a small screw in the center. Parents are often instructed to turn the screw daily with a key, gradually widening the jaw. This gentle adjustment creates space and ensures proper alignment.

  • Do Expanders Hurt?: Children typically experience mild pressure during adjustments, but the sensation subsides quickly. At Elate Orthodontics, we provide clear instructions to make the process comfortable.
  • Expander Gaps in Teeth: It’s common for a gap to form between the front teeth as the jaw widens. This gap will naturally close during the next phase of treatment.

Why Palate Expanders Are Important for Kids

Palate expanders are a crucial part of early orthodontic care and provide numerous benefits:

  1. Correct Bite Issues: Fix crossbites and underbites before they become severe.
  2. Prepare for Braces: Create space for braces to work more effectively.
  3. Encourage Proper Jaw Development: Ensures the upper and lower jaws grow in harmony.

When Is the Earliest Age for a Palate Expander?

At Elate Orthodontics, we typically recommend a palate expander starting around age 7. At this age, the upper jaw is still flexible, making it the ideal time to correct alignment issues and create space for adult teeth.


What Is the Cost of a Palate Expander?

The cost of a palate expander typically ranges from $1,500 to $3,000, depending on the complexity of the case. At Elate Orthodontics, we strive to make orthodontic care accessible by:

  • Accepting most major insurance plans.
  • Offering flexible financing options through our Finance Calculator.

Children’s Braces: The Next Step After an Expander

After completing palate expander treatment, children often transition to braces to align their teeth and perfect their bite.

  • Expander for Braces: The expander creates the space needed for braces to function effectively.
  • Kids Braces: Designed specifically for young patients, braces guide teeth into their ideal positions.
  • Pediatric Orthodontist Expertise: At Elate Orthodontics, we specialize in making the orthodontic journey positive and stress-free for kids.

How to Fix a Crossbite or Underbite in Kids

Addressing bite issues like crossbites and underbites early is critical for long-term oral health. Here’s how Elate Orthodontics can help:

  1. Palate Expanders: Correct jaw alignment and create space for teeth.
  2. Braces: Straighten teeth and finalize bite alignment.
  3. Customized Treatment Plans: Our team tailors treatment to meet each child’s unique needs.

Why Choose Elate Orthodontics for Palate Expanders and Braces in Prosper?

1. Experienced Orthodontists

Led by Dr. Kevin Baharvand and Dr. Julia Kang, our team provides personalized care to ensure the best outcomes for every patient.

2. Convenient Locations

We serve families across Prosper, Frisco, The Colony, and nearby areas with three easily accessible offices:

  • Frisco – Hollyhock Office: 2155 University Dr, Suite #110 (On Highway 380 across from Cook Children’s Medical Center Prosper)
  • Frisco – Tribute Office: 5605 FM 423, Suite #600 (423 and Lebanon Rd Intersection, next to UPS Store)
  • The Colony Office: 4713 Highway 121, Suite #304 (423/121 Intersection, next to Ross)

3. Affordable and Flexible Care

We offer affordable orthodontic care and work with families to create payment plans that fit their budgets. Learn more about our affordability in our blog: Affordable Orthodontics in Texas.


FAQs About Palate Expanders

1. Do Expanders Hurt?

Expanders are generally painless, though mild discomfort may occur during adjustments. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage this, and our team will provide guidance to keep your child comfortable.

2. How Long Does a Palate Expander Stay in the Mouth?

Expanders are typically worn for 4-6 months, depending on the child’s needs.

3. Can Palate Expanders Fix an Underbite or Crossbite?

Yes! Palate expanders are highly effective at correcting these issues, especially when used during early development.

4. When Is the Earliest Age for a Palate Expander?

At Elate Orthodontics, palate expanders are often introduced around age 7, when the jaw is still developing and flexible.


Schedule Your Free Consultation Today

If your child needs a palate expander, braces, or treatment for a crossbite or underbite, the experts at Elate Orthodontics are here to help. With offices in Prosper, Frisco, and The Colony, we proudly serve families in surrounding communities like Little Elm, Aubrey, Plano, and Carrollton.

Schedule your free consultation today to learn more about how we can help your child achieve a healthy, confident smile.