Palatal Expanders

Palatal Expanders

If our orthodontist needs to improve the way your upper and lower jaws come together, he may want to use a palatal expander in Glastonbury, Connecticut. This device can drastically improve your bite and can help you avoid the need for tooth extraction.

Sometimes, there just is not enough room in the jaw for all of your teeth to grow in. This can result in serious tooth crowding issues and an unhealthy, unattractive smile. Overcrowded teeth can be harder to brush, floss and examine for cavities and other problems. In addition, the irregular bunching can cause teeth to slide and scrape against each other in uncomfortable ways, wearing them down more quickly and leading to a host of other problems.

A palatal expander is used to spread out the bone of the upper jaw, which in turn helps the teeth on the lower jaw to join together with the top arch in a comfortable and healthy way. This can be used as a first step for other orthodontic treatment, or it can be a complete treatment on its own. Our team will make sure that your treatment is productive and helpful for your oral health.

Dr. Richard Risinger and our team can teach you more about this treatment option when you visit Risinger Orthodontics. Call 860-633-8321 to plan your visit and feel free to ask any further questions you have about palatal expanders. We are excited to help you on your path to a new, beautiful smile!

A palatal expander is an orthodontic appliance used to widen the upper jaw in order to help the upper and lower teeth fit together better. When you visit with our team, we will analyze your teeth and bite to determine the services that are appropriate for your specific needs. Many of our patients require adjustments to their bite in order to help their top and bottom teeth fit together in a way that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. If your upper jaw is too narrow, our orthodontist may recommend a palatal expander to widen your jaw and allow space for the teeth to properly align.

The palatal expander works by gradually stretching the soft cartilage of the palate, making room for crowded permanent teeth without the need for extraction. Based on your individual needs and preferences, your expander may be removable or fixed. We can help you learn more about palatal expanders during your next appointment at our friendly office.

Our orthodontist and entire team are eager to accommodate your needs at our office. We invite you to contact us if you have questions about palatal expanders and to schedule your next appointment with our experienced team. We are eager to help you reach your goals for a smile that is healthy, beautiful and functional.