Palate Expanders

🔑 How to Turn Your Expander

You will be given a special key to turn the expander. Follow these steps:

1. Have good lighting - Use a flashlight or stand in good light so you can see the expander clearly
2. Insert the key - Place the key in the hole in the center of the expander
3. Push toward the back - Gently push the key toward the back of the mouth until you see the next hole appear
4. Remove the key - Push down and back to remove the key
5. Record each turn - Keep track of turns on the chart we provide

😊 What to Expect

• Pressure - You may feel pressure on your teeth, roof of mouth, and even behind your eyes/nose. This is normal.
• Gap between front teeth - A space may develop between your front teeth. This is a sign the expander is working! The gap will close on its own or be closed with braces.
• Speech changes - You may lisp or have trouble with certain sounds at first. Practice reading aloud and this will improve.
• Extra saliva - Your mouth may produce more saliva initially. This will decrease.
• Soreness - Some discomfort is normal. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help.

🍎 Eating with an Expander

• Soft foods first - Stick to soft foods for the first few days
• Cut food into small pieces - Avoid biting into hard foods
• Avoid sticky foods - Caramel, gum, and taffy can damage the expander
• No hard foods - Avoid ice, hard candy, and nuts
• Food may get stuck - Rinse and brush after meals to remove trapped food

🪥 Cleaning Your Expander

• Brush after every meal - Use a regular toothbrush to clean around the expander
• Water pik/flosser - Great for flushing out food from around the expander
• Rinse with mouthwash - Helps keep the area clean and fresh
• Don't forget the roof of your mouth - Food can collect there too