A man with dark hair and a beard, wearing a black and white striped shirt, smiles at the camera, revealing the subtle outline of a Palatal Expander in his teeth—an example of treatment available at Levine Orthodontics in Fort Myers, Cape Coral or Lehigh Acres, FL.
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What is a Palatal Expander?

At Levine Orthodontics in Fort Myers, Cape Coral and Lehigh Acres, Dr. Alex Levine offers specialized treatment with palatal expanders, a cutting-edge orthodontic solution. A palatal expander, also called a rapid palatal expander (RPE), is a custom-created orthodontic device that gently widens the upper jaw over time. This allows for proper tooth alignment and helps improve how your bite works.

Types and Mechanism of Palatal Expanders

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Our practice provides several types of palatal expanders, each designed to address different dental needs.

Rapid Palatal Expander (RPE)

This common device is ideal for younger patients, connecting to molars and using a screw system for accurate adjustments. It works best before the palatal suture hardens, making it important to start treatment early.

Bone-Borne Expanders

These expanders use advanced screw technology to assist in unique dental situations, like cleft palate cases. They are a great choice for teens and adults who need dental corrections.

Miniscrew-Assisted RPE (MARPE)

A more advanced option for older teens and adults, this type uses small implants to deliver better skeletal changes while limiting tooth movement.

The Process of Impression or Scan and Placement of Separators

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We use modern technology to ensure maximum comfort and accuracy throughout your treatment.

Impression and Digital Scan

We’ve transitioned from traditional impression techniques to state-of-the-art digital scanning, offering our patients a more comfortable process and delivering exceptional precision for your custom expander creation.

Placement of Spacers or Separators

Prior to placing your expander, we may gently insert separators to create enough space between your teeth if needed. Our careful technique ensures minimal discomfort, while achieving the best results.

Advantages of 3D Printed Appliances 
and Digital Scans

We take pride in utilizing advanced technology to craft precisely fitted expanders, minimizing the need for adjustments and prioritizing optimal comfort for our patients.

Digital Workflow in Palatal Expander Fabrication

Our clinic employs advanced digital techniques to design virtual models of your mouth, guaranteeing that every palatal expander is tailored precisely to fit your individual dental needs.

Effectiveness and Outcomes

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Treatment to address maxillary deficiencies shows significant improvement in proper jaw placement, particularly during a child’s growth period. Correcting the palate may also improve nasal airflow, benefiting patients with mouth-breathing tendencies.

Palate Expanders, Airway Improvement, Snoring and Sleep Apnea

Besides improving dental structure, expanders can enhance breathing and promote better sleeping patterns. Many patients report reduced snoring and better sleep after treatment.

Impact on Speech and Comfort

While there is a short adjustment phase, most patients adapt to their palate expander quickly. Our team supports you every step of the way for a smooth process.

Impact on Sleep Apnea and Snoring

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) occurs when airways are restricted during sleep, leading to snoring and breathing difficulties. Palatal expansion can widen these airways, improving airflow and helping to manage symptoms.

Clinical Evidence

Research indicates that specific airway expansion methods can greatly alleviate sleep apnea symptoms in adults, emphasizing their effectiveness in addressing sleep-related breathing disorders.

Early Orthodontic Intervention

Starting orthodontic care early in childhood can be key. Expanding the palate not only creates more room for crowded teeth but can also help improve breathing, reducing future issues like sleep apnea.

Importance of Comprehensive Diagnosis

Using 3D imaging enables us to precisely assess your airway and dental structure. This aids in creating tailored plans to deliver the best results.

Conclusion

At Levine Orthodontics in Fort Myers, Cape Coral and Lehigh Acres, Dr. Alex Levine and our skilled team prioritize providing advanced orthodontic care with palatal expanders. With a mix of modern technology and personalized treatment plans, we ensure top-quality results for our local community. Contact us today to schedule your free orthodontic consultation and start your journey toward your perfect smile!

FAQ

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How long does it take to see results with a palatal expander?

Most patients notice changes within a few weeks, but the full expansion process usually takes 3-6 months, depending on the individual’s specific treatment needs.

Will wearing a palatal expander be painful?

You may feel slight discomfort at first, but it’s usually easy to manage with over-the-counter pain medication. Our staff will give you detailed instructions and support to make the process as smooth as possible.
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