Palatal Expander (RPE)
Instructions and what to expect with your child’s rapid palatal expander.
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What the Expander Is
- Custom Hyrax-style appliance used to gently widen the upper jaw
- Helps create space and improve alignment of the teeth
- Most effective in growing patients
Parts of the Expander
- Bands cemented on the upper first molars
- Palatal arms extending forward toward the upper canines for stability
- Central jack screw in the middle that activates expansion
How to Turn the Expander
- Follow the exact turning schedule prescribed by your orthodontist at delivery
- Turns are typically done at night before bed
- Insert the key fully into the center screw hole
- Push the key all the way toward the back of the mouth until the next hole appears
- The previous hole should fully disappear into the screw housing
- Remove the key straight out — do not pull forward
- Do not turn more than prescribed per day or total
- If a turn is missed, do not double up; simply extend treatment by one day
What to Expect
- Pressure or tightness is normal after activation
- Mild discomfort may occur in teeth, nose, or cheeks
- A space (diastema) may form between upper front teeth and is expected
- Temporary speech changes are common, especially with s, sh, and ch sounds
- Increased saliva production is common initially
- Reading out loud for 10–15 minutes a few times daily for 1–2 days helps adaptation
How Long It Stays In
- After active expansion, the appliance typically remains in place for 4–6 months
- This allows bone to stabilize and reduces relapse risk
Care Instructions
- Brush carefully around the appliance after every meal
- Use a Waterpik to remove trapped food under the expander
- Rinse with water after eating
- Avoid hard and sticky foods such as gum, caramel, ice, popcorn kernels, and hard candy
- Food restrictions are critical to prevent breakage or loosening of cement
If Something Goes Wrong
- If the expander feels loose, breaks, or causes significant pain, contact the office immediately
- Use the custom QR code provided at delivery for after-hours or emergency contact with the orthodontist
Watch an instructional video on how to turn a palatal expander
Questions About Your Child's Appliance?
If you have any questions or concerns about your child's orthodontic appliance, our team is here to help. Call our Dupont office and we'll walk you through it.
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