This special appliance is designed to widen the roof of your mouth by gently separating the suture in the center of your palate. The suture is similar to the soft spots in a baby's head and will eventually fill in with bone as well. This expansion is easier and more effective at earlier ages because the "soft spot" is bigger. Rapid Palatal Expanders (RPEs) are used to create space in the maxilla (upper jaw) to allow the teeth to erupt and/or to correct a transverse skeletal discrepancy (crossbite).

Rapid Palatal Expander

Transpalatal Arch

How often should we activate the RPE?

The activation schedule is dependent on each individual case. Please activate as directed. Usually, the RPE screw is turned once per day for 4 to 6 weeks. You will visit our office regularly while activating your appliance so we can monitor your progress.

How do we activate the appliance?

• Firmly grip the RPE key. The metal tip key will rotate about the end of the plastic handle. This provides the needed mobility for activation.
• Insert the key carefully into the hole in the middle, front part of your appliance.
• Push the key gently and steadily from the front toward the back of your mouth. Do not back up. Remove the key towards your throat. Pushing the key back as far as possible brings forward a new keyhole position. Now you're ready for the next activation.

What will it feel like?

• You may sense some initial discomfort and pressure causing a tingling or "itch" under your RPE.
• A tingling sensation may occur on the bridge of your nose.
• You may see a space open between your two front teeth.

How should I clean my RPE?

• Brush your teeth as you usually would and brush carefully around your appliance.
• Use a Water Pik^® or kitchen sink sprayer and mouthwash to keep your mouth free of spoiled, irritating food particles.
• Take Tylenol^® or Advil^® for any discomfort.

How long will it take?

The length of time depends on what we are trying to accomplish. Most corrections can be achieved in 4 to 6 weeks while others take up to 1 year. Typically, the appliance remains in your mouth for 2 months after turns have been completed. Then a smaller "permanent" retainer, a transpalatal arch, is placed for at least 6 months while the new bone is regenerating in your mouth.

Other Considerations

Once the expander is removed, it is sometimes necessary to place braces on the permanent incisors to improve their alignment.