Majority of parents believe that they have to wait for their children turn into teens before considering orthodontic treatment. Nevertheless, according to the American Association of Orthodontists, the child’s checkup should be performed at the age of seven. It helps to avoid dental complications before they start.
For braces orthodontist Everett WA families can approach Silver Lake Orthodontics. The clinic also has customized treatment for every child, who can enjoy a healthy and confident smile for long-term. Children are not afraid to visit the orthodontist regularly as it is a friendly place.
What Are Palatal Expanders?
A palatal expander is a common tool used in early orthodontics. It is a custom device that fits in the roof of the mouth. It gently widens the upper jaw over several months. This process works best while the jaw is still growing.
Children have a growth plate in the center of their palate. This plate does not fuse until after puberty. Because the bone is still soft, an expander can make structural changes easily. This creates more room for permanent teeth to erupt.
Fixing Crowding and Impacted Teeth
One of the biggest benefits of expanders is the creation of space. Many children suffer from severe dental crowding. When there is not enough room, teeth may come in crooked or sideways. In some cases, teeth might get stuck in the bone.
By widening the jaw early, we can often avoid the need for tooth extractions. The extra space allows adult teeth to slide into their natural positions. This makes the eventual braces phase much faster and more effective.
Correcting Bite Alignments
Expanders also help fix crossbites. When the upper teeth are positioned within the lower teeth, it is called a crossbite. This will lead to the moving of the jaw towards one side as your child grows. If left untreated, this may cause facial asymmetry and jaw pains.
Expansion of the upper arch makes teeth well aligned. This safeguards the tooth enamel against wearing out in an unequal manner. It additionally enhances good development of jaw joints. Correction at an early age means that the face grows in a symmetrical manner.
Improving Breathing and Speech
A narrow palate can affect more than just teeth. It often limits the space in the nasal cavity. Children with narrow jaws may struggle with mouth breathing or snoring. Expansion can open the airway and improve oxygen flow.
Speech can also be affected by a narrow upper arch. Certain sounds require the tongue to hit the roof of the mouth. If the arch is too narrow, the tongue cannot move correctly. An expander helps provide the space needed for clear articulation.
Setting Up for Future Success
Starting early does not always mean a child gets braces immediately. It often means “Phase One” treatment to fix the bone structure. This sets a solid foundation for “Phase Two” during the teen years. The second phase is usually much simpler.
Early intervention saves time and money in the long run. It reduces the risk of oral surgery later in life. Most importantly, it gives children a functional bite and a beautiful smile. Investing in their oral health now pays off for decades.
