When and Why Maxillary Expansion is Necessary in Orthodontic Treatment
One of the most effective and widely used techniques in pediatric orthodontics is maxillary expansion. This method plays a vital role in correcting jaw discrepancies, creating room for crowded teeth, and improving overall bite function.
At Burke & Redford Orthodontists, with offices located in Temecula and Lake Elsinore, California, Dr. Ryan Redford and Dr. Michael Burke offer advanced orthodontic treatments for children and teenagers.
What Is Maxillary Expansion?
Maxillary expansion is an orthodontic technique used to widen the upper jaw (maxilla). This is especially important in growing children whose jawbones are still developing and more responsive to orthopedic guidance.
A narrow upper jaw can result in multiple issues, including:
- Crossbite (when the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth)
- Dental crowding due to lack of space
- Asymmetrical jaw growth
- Speech difficulties
When performed early, maxillary expansion can eliminate the need for more invasive procedures later in life, such as tooth extractions or jaw surgery.
Why Is Maxillary Expansion Necessary in Kids and Teenagers?
Children and teens are ideal candidates for maxillary expansion because their sutures—the connective tissues between bones in the upper jaw—have not yet fused. This allows the orthodontist to gently guide the growth of the upper jaw using custom orthodontic appliances.
Common reasons for maxillary expansion include:
- Crossbites: An upper jaw that is too narrow can cause the back teeth to bite inside the lower teeth, leading to asymmetrical wear and shifting of the jaw (functional shift) when biting down.
- Crowded Teeth: If there isn’t enough space for adult teeth to erupt, widening the upper jaw can prevent or reduce crowding.
- Early Orthodontic Intervention: Palatal expansion can simplify future orthodontic treatments, including braces or Invisalign.
Types of Appliances Used for Maxillary Expansion
Dr. Redford and Dr. Burke utilize several different orthodontic appliances to perform maxillary expansion, based on each patient’s unique anatomy and treatment goals.
These are custom-made acrylic expanders bonded directly to the molars and premolars. A small key is used to activate the device gradually, widening the palate over time.
- Banded Expanders
Attached to the back molar teeth using metal orthodontic bands, these expanders offer a slightly different structure but serve the same purpose as bonded expanders.
This is a mild expansion appliance that applies light pressure to the upper arch. It is often used to retain previous expansion or in cases where only limited widening is needed.
In select cases, a Pendulum expander may be used. This option is usually indicated in cases where moving the molars towards the back of the mouth can help address impacted teeth.
How Long Does Treatment Take?
Maxillary expansion is typically completed over a period of 3 to 6 months. After the expansion is complete, the device is kept in place for a few additional months to stabilize the new arch width.
Tying Maxillary Expansion into Comprehensive Orthodontic Treatment
Once the expansion phase is complete, your child or teen may transition into a second phase of orthodontic treatment. This can include one of the following options offered at Burke & Redford Orthodontists:
Self-Ligating Braces
These advanced braces don’t use elastic ties to secure the wire to the brackets. Instead, they feature a clip system that allows the archwire to move freely, resulting in less friction and faster treatment times.
- Damon Braces: One of the most well-known self-ligating systems.
- Ceramic Braces: A discreet option using clear or tooth-colored brackets.
- Metal Braces: Durable and efficient, these are ideal for most cases and can be decorated with colors for kids.
Invisalign & Invisalign for Teens
Invisalign is often recommended for teens with mild to moderate orthodontic concerns. Clear aligners may be used after expansion to fine-tune alignment and create a beautiful, functional smile.
- Easy to remove for eating and brushing
- Comfortable and virtually invisible
- Customized for each patient’s dental anatomy
Functional Appliances Post-Expansion
Depending on your child’s bite and jaw alignment, additional appliances may be used:
- Herbst Appliance: Encourages lower jaw growth in overbite cases
- Reverse Pull Headgear: Used in younger patients to pull the upper jaw forward (especially in Class III malocclusions)
- Space Maintainers: Prevent teeth from shifting into unwanted positions
- Habit Appliances: Designed to discourage thumb-sucking and tongue-thrusting habits that impact jaw and tooth development
Benefits of Maxillary Expansion
- Improved bite function
- Reduced risk of impaction and crowding
- Enhanced facial symmetry
- Decreases need for extractions or surgery later
- Easier orthodontic treatment in Phase II
When Should My Child Be Evaluated?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Dr. Redford and Dr. Burke use advanced diagnostic tools, including 3D imaging, to assess growth patterns and determine the right time for treatment.
Early diagnosis and treatment planning allow our team to intervene when it makes the most impact, reducing both treatment time and cost.
FAQ – Maxillary Expansion
Q: Is maxillary expansion painful for kids?
A: Some pressure or tightness may be felt after activation, but discomfort is minimal and short-lived.
Q: Can maxillary expansion prevent braces?
A: Expansion alone doesn’t straighten teeth, but it creates the space necessary for alignment. Braces or Invisalign are often still recommended afterward.
Q: Will my child need surgery?
A: In many cases, early maxillary expansion eliminates the need for surgery later.
Q: How do I know if my child needs expansion?
A: Signs include crossbites, crowding, mouth breathing, thumb sucking, or speech issues. An orthodontic evaluation will provide a full diagnosis.
Request an Orthodontic Consultation for Your Child or Teenager with Dr. Ryan Redford
At Burke & Redford Orthodontists, your child’s smile is our top priority. If you think your child or teen may benefit from maxillary expansion or any other form of orthodontic care in Temecula, our team is here to help with expert evaluations and personalized treatment plans.
Call us today at (951) 699-8011 or fill out the consultation request form on our website to request a free orthodontic consultation for your child with Dr. Ryan Redford.
Let’s build the foundation for a confident, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime!