Many people wonder about the benefit of palatal expander for adults, and whether it is possible to fully perform what is required of them at an advanced age.
So, what is a palatal expander? And how does it contribute to the treatment of adult crossbite? Follow us to find out more information.
Palatal Expander; What is it?
Palatal expander is a device that is used to widen the palatal of the mouth. It is used in early age with different complications. These complications include things like a cleft palate, a misalignment of the bite, or it can also be used to align a patient’s bite after extensive orthodontics treatment. There are so many different uses of palatal expander. Since it is a simple device, using it is not very complicated.
Also, Palatal expander is a device used to correct a crossbite, a condition wherein a patient’s upper teeth do not align properly with the lower teeth.
What is a crossbite?
A crossbite is a type of dental malocclusion (bad bite) in which the upper teeth bite on the inside of the lower teeth. This can cause problems with the way the teeth fit together, and can also lead to gum disease and tooth decay. Crossbites can be treated with braces or other dental appliances.
How does a Palatal Expander treat a crossbite?
It’s not a complicated thing, and it does its part in a gradual and simple way. Palatal Expander is a simple device that is placed in the mouth and attached to the teeth. The expander is then gradually expanded over a period of time, which creates more space in the mouth and helps to correct the alignment of the teeth.
However, it is recommended for early use in children after the age of seven. The palatal expander for adults requires a longer treatment period.
Is a palatal expander useful for adults in treatment?
There is some debate as to whether or not a palatal expander is useful for adults in treatment. Some say that the expander can help to widen the palatal, making it easier to eat and speak. Others argue that the expander can actually cause more problems than it solves, including pain and discomfort. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to use a palatal expander is up to the individual and their orthodontist.
The length of time that the expander is worn depends on the individual case. In some cases, the expander may need to be worn for several months.
What is the recovery time like after used palatal expander for adult?
The recovery time after using a palatal expander for adults can vary depending on the individual. Some people may experience some soreness or tenderness in the area where the expander was placed, but this is typically mild and should subside within a few days. In most cases, the expander can be removed after four to six weeks. But that is different for adult. Some people maybe need 4 months.
Are there alternatives to palatal expander?
There may be alternatives to palatal expander for adults, depending on the reason for needing the expander. If the issue is purely cosmetic, for example, veneers or bonding may be options. If the goal is to improve speech, however, other options are more limited. One possible alternative to a palatal expander is speech therapy, which can help train the muscles in the mouth and throat to produce clearer speech. Surgery is another potential option, but it is usually only recommended as a last resort.
Conclusion
A crossbite is a condition where the upper and lower teeth are not aligned and meet in an improper bite. The upper teeth are in front of the lower teeth, so the lower teeth are pushed forward. This leads to many problems with the placement and growth of the teeth.
So, it is difficult for a palatal expander to be the ideal solution for adult, when it is meant to be used as a treatment at an early age. But it is one of many options for treating crossbites. Although you may need more time and experience some pain when using it at a later age.
We hope this blog has given you a better understanding of palatal expanders and how they can help you.