What Are Expander Braces?
Expander braces are dental appliances that are commonly used in orthodontic treatment to correct a variety of dental malocclusions. The most common type of expander brace is the rapid palatal expander (RPE), which was originally developed by Dr. John Wilkinson in the 1970s. The main function of an expander brace is to gradually widen the upper jaw, which can help correct problems such as拥挤的牙齿、前牙反合（下巴突）以及牙齿错位。
How Do Expander Braces Work?
Expansion brackets work in a similar way to traditional braces, but they consist of two parts: a bracket attached to each upper molar and an upper arm extending forward to press on the anterior teeth. One end of the expander arm is fixed to the bracket, while the other end is connected to a screw that can be turned daily by the patient or their orthodontist.
When the screw is turned, it applies pressure to the molars via the brackets, slowly stretching the palate and expanding the upper jaw. This pressure is directed at the midpalatal suture, the narrow band of bone that connects the upper and lower jaws. Over time, the suture stretches and allows the palate to widen, providing ample room for other teeth to move into proper alignment.
Why Are Expander Braces Used?
Expander braces are typically recommended for children whose jaws are still growing and have not yet fused together. This allows for quicker and simpler treatment compared to adult orthodontic treatment, which may involve more complex procedures such as extraction or jaw surgery. Expander braces are also often used to correct mild to moderate malocclusions in older children, teenagers, and adults.
Types of Expander Braces
There are several different types of expander braces, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The most common types include;
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Rapid Palatal Expanders (RPE): This is the most widely used expander brace. It is attached to the molars with bands and includes a screw that turns to widen the palate.
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Quad Helix Expander: This device is attached to the upper front teeth with bands and uses four helix springs to expand the entire maxilla.
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Haas Expander: Similar to the hyrax expander, this type of expander is attached to the molars with bands and covers the screws with acrylic.
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Mandibular Expander: Rarely used anymore, this expander is used to correct abnormalities in the lower jaw, such as protrusion or constriction.
Benefits of Expander Braces
- Short Treatment Time: Due to the body's natural growth process, expander braces can correct malocclusions in a shorter period of time compared to traditional braces.
- Minimal Discomfort: As the bone is still developing, the expansion process is usually less comfortable for patients than adult orthodontic treatment.
- Clear Appearances: Many adults choose expander braces due to their inconspicuous appearance. The arms that extend forward can be hidden by the lips.
- Ease of Use: Like traditional braces, expander braces typically require frequent adjustments but can be less intrusive than other orthodontic treatments such as clear aligners.
Disadvantages of Expander Braces
- Cost: Expander braces can be more expensive initially due to the specialized equipment required for treatment.
- Complications: Although rare, some patients may experience complications such as root resorption or loss of牙齿 as a result of orthodontic pressure.
- Adaptation Period: As with any dental appliance, patients may experience a period of adaptation when starting expander braces, which can include minor discomfort and speech challenges.
Conclusion
Overall, expander braces are a versatile and effective treatment option for correcting dental malocclusions in children, adolescents, and adults. By gradually widening the upper jaw, these appliances can create ample space for opposing teeth to align properly, leading to improved bite and facial aesthetics. If you are considering expander braces for your child, it is important to consult with an experienced orthodontist who can determine whether these appliances are the right choice for your child's unique needs.
