Expanders are needed when the dental arches are too narrow or too small. Palatal expanders create wider more attractive smiles and reduce the need for extractions.
There are basically two types of palatal expanders:
Banded Expander
A banded expander consists of an expansion screw that fits in the palate and is secured to the teeth with metal orthodontic bands. To be most effective, the expansion screw should be held in place by four orthodontic bands (2 on each side). Unfortunately, this appliance takes several appointments to deliver and fitting the banded expander can be quite uncomfortable. For this reason, most orthodontists only use two bands for an expander, which results in more tipping of the teeth and less jaw expansion. Tipping teeth can actually make it more difficult to fit the upper and lower teeth together properly.
Bonded Expander
Dr. White uses the bonded expander exclusively! With the bonded appliance, the expansion screw is secured to the teeth with custom-made acrylic caps which are bonded to the back teeth. Not only is the bonded expander much more comfortable to fit, the expansion is more effective and the appliance can be delivered after one visit. Dr. White has also been able to use a modified version of the bonded expander to correct bites in many instances where jaw surgery would have been needed.
Why Dr. White uses Bonded Expanders:
- More comfortable!
- More effective!
- More efficient!
- TMJ friendly!
- Used as an alternative to jaw surgery in some cases!
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