For a More Even Bite, Better Breathing, and More Balanced Facial Features

Widening the roof of the mouth with a palate expander in CA from Wow! Smiles™ corrects issues with crowded teeth, bite problems, and also breathing difficulties. It’s safe and effective for children. In fact, it yields the best results when it’s used in kids or adolescents.

Its powerful effect on widening the palate is its top benefit, as it corrects crossbites and can help with overbites and underbites. It’ll improve appearance and function, space out teeth better, prevent the need for extractions, support unimpeded breathing, and more.

Book a consultation today to discover if a palate expander is right for you or your child.

What Is a Palate Expander?

A palate expander is an oral device that uses gentle pressure to safely and gradually widen the space between the teeth on your upper jaw. It’s often a metal contraption with an acrylic or dental-grade plastic plate in the center. Usually, it has wires and bands that anchor the device in place during the treatment process.

You’ll also notice the expander has a screw in the middle that you’ll use to expand its size consistently, as directed by our orthodontist. To effectively have the expander do its job, you wear it all day and night, only taking it out to adjust it.

Why Choose a Palate Expander at One of Our CA Practices?

At Wow! Smiles™, we’re all about our patients. We make your visit about you, including what concerns you most and how we can help. We recognize that each patient is unique, and we customize each treatment plan to reflect that. That’s why our team takes the time to get to know you, and we provide thorough diagnostics to assist in the process.

Our team works diligently to make the entire process smooth, easy, and comfortable for you. Plus, each member of our staff  has the necessary training and experience, so you can rest assured you’re in good hands. Did we mention that we’re friendly?

Because price can be a challenge, we offer payment plans to meet your needs. And we’re more concerned about you getting the dental care you need, so we don’t charge interest.

Who Is a Palate Expander Suitable For?

Parent and son sitting on a couch smiling

This particular dental treatment is useful for patients who have teeth crowding, bite problems, or just need more space in their mouths. Patients who snore or have sleep apnea may benefit as well. We encourage parents to reach out for a consultation and determine if their child could use a palate expander either as a treatment or for preventative purposes. Generally, we recommend children receive a palate expander between the ages of six and 16, when their palate bones are still malleable.

While the device is most effective at addressing issues in children and helping them prevent problems as they age, adults, too, can use a palate expander. Often, as an adult, you’ll use this treatment along with other interventions, such as braces.

Treatment Duration & What to Expect

We’ll start the process with a consultation to assess your or your child’s needs. Our orthodontist will conduct a visual and physical inspection of the teeth’s positions and ask questions about any issues you or your child is having. A bite evaluation and X-rays will be performed. At this appointment, children will need to have a bone development assessment.

After, it usually takes about one or two weeks before the expander returns from the lab. At that point, you’ll need to return for a follow-up visit for you or your child for a fitting and to receive patient education.

Once done, you’ll return home with the expander, and you or your child will need to use it daily and adjust it accordingly once or twice per day. In adults, the treatment usually takes six months to a year, while in children, it generally takes three to six months, as their jaw is still malleable and tends to respond well.

Palate Expander Cost & Payment Options

The price of an expander ranges between $1,000 and $3,000. The specifics of your or your child’s case may affect the price, such as if additional treatments are needed. A member of our team will discuss any expenses outside of the expander, fitting, and adjustments so you’re well aware of your financial obligations.

We accept a range of insurance providers and work with you to take care of your end. And if you don’t have any insurance, we can set up a payment plan for you so you can still receive the treatment you require for a healthy, well-balanced smile. We’ll work within your budget, and you won’t even have to worry about interest on top of what you owe — there is none. We also offer promotions regularly.

We Have Offices in Santa Rosa, Monterey, Napa, Pittsburg, Salinas, Soledad, Ukiah, Vallejo, and Watsonville.

Our convenient locations make us close for those in Sonoma, Windsor, Seaside, Pacific Grove, St. Helena, American Canyon, Oakley, and Clayton.

Ready for a better bite and more even smile? Call us Wow! Smiles™ at (844) 900-4969 today for a consultation.

FAQs