“My son was able to breathe more easily at night.”
My son at age 4 was diagnosed with severe sleep apnea. We went to Marin Ortho and had a teeth expander put in place. Within a few weeks he was able to breathe more easily at night. Additionally, he stopped waking up in the middle of the nigh
What is Palatal Expansion?
The upper jaw is made of two separate bones that gradually fuse together as a child grows. Before that fusion happens, we have a valuable window of opportunity to gently widen the palate, creating more space in the mouth and nasal cavity. This can improve breathing, support healthy facial development, reduce crowding, and in many cases eliminate the need to remove baby or permanent teeth later on.
Expansion typically takes 6 to 12 months in total, including both the active expansion phase and the stabilization period that follows.
Which Type of Expander is Right for Your Child?
We offer two approaches to palatal expansion for children: traditional expanders and Invisalign expansion. Dr. Gorton will recommend the right option based on your child’s age, anatomy, lifestyle, and treatment goals. Both approaches deliver comparable results.
Traditional Expanders
A traditional expander is bonded directly to the back teeth and works by gently widening the upper palate over time. It is turned once daily for approximately six weeks until the ideal width is reached, then left in place for around six months to allow the bone to stabilize. Because it is fixed in place, a traditional expander is an excellent choice for younger children. Treatment stays on track with zero effort from the patient.
Traditional expanders are placed on the palate and attached to the back teeth, making them relatively discreet. We provide dental pipe cleaners to help keep the area clean and comfortable. One thing to expect: traditional expanders will create a small gap between the front teeth as the palate widens. This is a completely normal and beneficial part of the process, as it creates space for incoming adult teeth. Any spacing can be easily addressed with Invisalign after expansion is complete,free of charge.
Particularly effective for: Children with airway concerns or sleep apnea, younger patients who benefit from a fixed appliance that requires zero management, and cases where consistent, around-the-clock expansion is the priority.
Invisalign Expansion
For children who qualify, Invisalign clear aligners can achieve palatal expansion with outstanding results. Aligners are nearly invisible, removable, and comfortable, with smooth edges.
Invisalign aligners are worn for around 23 hours per day and changed weekly as teeth gradually shift into position. Because the aligners are created in advance using digital imaging, the number of in-office visits is reduced. We can also monitor progress remotely through an app, which many families find especially convenient.
Invisalign can also be used alongside other appliances such as sectional braces or habit appliances, making it a flexible option that works well within a broader treatment plan.
A good fit for children who: Are ready to wear their aligners consistently, prefer a more comfortable and flexible experience, and are looking for a more discreet option.
Early Expansion Makes a Big Difference
Treating children early, while the jaw is still growing, gives us the greatest ability to guide development and create lasting change. Benefits of early palatal expansion can include.
Improved breathing and airway health Better sleep quality Reduced crowding and a lower likelihood of tooth removal later Healthier facial development and structure A stronger foundation for any future orthodontic treatment
