The purpose of this article is to give an overview of the different types of palatal expanders available and to explain how they work to correct dental issues.
Palate expanders are oral devices that are used to gradually widen the upper palate and correct dental conditions such as拥挤的牙齿、重叠的牙齿、错位的牙齿和阻塞性睡眠呼吸暂停（OSAS）。 Palate expanders are most commonly used in children before the roots of their permanent teeth have fully developed, but can also be used in teens and adults.
There are two main types of palatal expanders: removable and fixed. Removable palatal expanders can be easily removed for cleaning and eating, but must be replaced after each meal. Fixed palatal expanders are cemented in place by your orthodontist at the back of the palate and can only be removed by them.
Removeable Palate Expanders
Removable palatal expanders are designed for temporary use and are typically used by children. They can be removed for cleaning, eating, and playing sports, but they must be replaced after each meal.
There are several different brands of removable palate expanders, and the type you choose will depend on the amount of jaw widening needed. Some removable expanders are designed for a smaller jaw and may only need the screw turned a few times a week, while others are more invasive and require more Frequent adjustments.
Rapid Palatal Expanders (RPEs)
Rapid palatal expanders are a more aggressive type of expander and are typically used in serious cases where other methods have failed. They are also known as "starburst" expanders because of their star-shaped design.
RPEs are made of metal and plastic and work by slowly separating the bones of the palate using screws or hinges. They can be more comfortable for the patient than other types of expanders because they do not put constant pressure on the teeth.
RPEs work quickly and typically achieve the desired results in three to six months. At the end of the expansion phase, the expander must be left in place for an additional six to nine months to allow the suture to ossify and consolidate in the new spaces.
Fixed Palatal Expanders
Fixed palatal expanders are cemented in place by your orthodontist and can only be removed by them. They are more stable than removable expanders but also more expensive and intrusive.
Fixed expanders consist of an upper and lower appliance that are connected by screws or springs. As these screws or springs are tightened, they apply pressure on the bones of the palate, gradually widening the arch.
Fixed expanders are particularly useful for adult patients whose bones are already strong and developed and who have not responded well to previous orthodontic treatment.
How Do Palatal Expanders Work?
Palatal expanders apply pressure to the bones in the palate, gradually widening the arch. There are two main types of expanders: the rapid palatal expander (RPE) and the hyrax.
RPEs are activated by a key that is turned twice a day. As the key is turned, it applies pressure on the suture in the palate, gradually separating the bones and widening the palate.
Conversely, the hyrax is a fixed appliance that is bonded to the back molars. It consists of an upper and lower appliance that is connected by screws or springs. As these screws or springs are tightened, they apply pressure on the bones of the palate, gradually widening the arch.
The expansion through the use of expanders anchored on miniscrews allowed an increase in maxillary suture more than 2.5 times compared to expansion with conventional rep., palatal expanders are an effective yet gentle way to correct issues such as crossbites, narrow arches and other abnormalities in the dental arch.
