The rotation stops when the key meets the back of the expander. Thursday 8:30a – 5p The sensation generally lasts for about 5 minutes and then dissipates. This is normal and when you stop turning the RPE, the teeth will start to come together again on their own. To correct this, insert the key into the hole that faces the rear of the expander and continue the activation until the next hole is fully visible at the front of your mouth. To correct this, insert the key into the hole that faces the rear of the expander and continue the activation until the next hole is fully visible at the front of your mouth. You should then see the next hole for insertion at the top. Sometimes, you think you made the complete turn and then remove the key. Keep the key inserted in the hole and push toward the back of the mouth (the direction will be marked with an arrow on the expander) until the other key hole is visible at the front of the mouth. Wiggle the key down toward your tongue to remove it (be cautious so that you do not “unturn” the screw). The RPE is attached to the upper back teeth and eases the suture apart, which makes the jaw wider. A rapid palatal expander (RPE) is a specially made appliance used to widen the two halves of the top jaw, also known as the palate or maxilla. Sometimes, you think you made the complete turn and then remove the key. If an RPE is removed too early, some of the width gained could be lost. The hole is not accessible because when you make your turn, you are not turning it fully. Keep the area clean until our orthodontist and team have examined it. We can always make up a turn in office, or you can add it on another day. palate expander key won’t turn. Wednesday – Closed An expander has many benefits. Choices can include yogurt, healthy shakes, ice cream, mashed vegetables like potatoes, zucchini, or yams, or mashed bananas, soup, etc. The expansion of the palate is usually completed in 1-3 weeks. During expansion, a space may develop between the two front teeth. Sugarless gum is also ok to chew while the expander is in place. Then, the patient tilts their head back so that the RPE can be seen clearly with the arrows pointing in the direction of the turn. It appears as if the turn was completed successfully, but when you go to make another turn the key will not go into the new hole. Gently remove the key from the mouth. 3. Hold the key with two fingers. Turn your palatal expander twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. However, the appliance remains in the mouth for a longer period, generally 5-6 months to allow the new bone that has formed to mature. To correct this, insert the key in the hole facing the back of the expander and push it in the direction of the arrow (toward the throat) until the next hole is visible at the front of the appliance. On the day the expander is placed, we give you a key that inserts into an opening in the activation portion of the RPE. When the turn is complete, simply push down toward the tongue while you continue to lightly apply pressure toward the back of the mouth to remove the key. Activation of an expander is usually done by a parent, guardian, or someone other than the patient. When the expander is placed, we show you how to clean around it. 05/12/2020. It can widen the upper arch so that the upper teeth fit better with the lower teeth, creating a better bite. Note that when the key is fully inserted, the bend in center of the key is no longer visible. As the jaw expands, new bone fills in between the two halves of the palate. As you turn, the fender rotates and a new hole becomes visible. Suite 209 All Rights Reserved. After the palatal expander has been seated (put in place in your mouth), it is adjusted by turning the key in the direction of the arrow, by you or your parent. I can’t find the hole at the front of the expander.If this happens, it may be that the previous activation was not complete or the screw became unturned. Tuesday 9a – 6p You will then have to return to the previous hole which is located towards the back of the mouth, insert key and complete the turn. Stock up on your favorite soft foods and liquids. When you turn the screw properly the … Also widening the palate can make room for crowded teeth to align, which can often prevent the need for extraction of permanent teeth. Patients who are going through palate expander treatment either because of a crossbite, underbite, or any other orthodontic issues that require it used to face different problems during the treatment period , whether those problems are about the hardware itself or related to the way it works, and one of these common issue is when the palate … How long is a rapid palatal expander used? Don’t panic! See video below. Still keep your scheduled appointment to check the expansion. Favorite Answer. I can’t find the hole at the front of the expander. However, if food does get stuck, you can swish or gargle with water, or take a cotton swab and gently wipe the palate of the mouth. No, it doesn’t hurt. If this happens, it may be that the previous activation was not complete or the screw became unturned. There are certain foods that cannot be eaten while the expander is in place. When the expander is placed, we show you how to clean around it. Please review our COVID-19 Action Plan and new policies here. The expander seems to be loose on one side.If you suspect the expander is loose, cease activating immediately and call Galati Orthodontics to schedule an appointment to have the expander checked and re-cemented. Somers, NY 10589 However, if food does get stuck, you can swish or gargle with water, or take a cotton swab and gently wipe the palate of the mouth. Studies have shown that expanders can widen air passages and result in better breathing. That is why we often recommend a turn made in the morning and a turn in the evening to keep the patient comfortable. If you have further questions about troubleshooting your expander, please call 480-656-7801 for assistance. Thank you for your cooperation! Sometimes the appliance screw can turn backward. Tel: 480-656-7801 | 8573 E Princess Dr #203, Scottsdale, AZ 85255, © Copyright 2020 Galati Orthodontics. You should now be able to see a new hole in the front for your next turn. These will include chewy, sticky sugary foods such as caramels, taffy, gummy bears, fruit roll-ups, Swedish fish, Starburst, Skittles, etc. It is easiest to have the patient lie down on a bed or couch where there is good light. 293 Route 100 Place the wire (Key) into the front hole of the rapid palatal expander and then rotate it to the back of the mouth until it stops. 04/27/2020. 8573 E Princess Dr #203, Scottsdale, AZ 85255. Friday 7:30a – 4p. Are there any precautions to take with an expander? Source. Lastly, expanders contribute to a broader, more attractive smile. Getting Here | Get In Touch, Hours of Operation: You will be given specific instructions as to how many turns to complete before the next appointment.