Wearing / Caring for Your Braces

Your Palatal Expander

Today you have been fitted with a special appliance to widen your upper jaw. When this appliance is turned each day, the two halves of your upper jaw gradually move apart. Listed below are some items of information, along with instructions that you will need while wearing this appliance.

1. The appliance is cemented to your teeth. Please don't eat ice and avoid hard, crunchy foods that will loosen or break this appliance. Cut back on soda's as the carbonation may break down the cement. Do not eat sticky, gooey foods that may get stuck in the appliance.
2. Your appliance will need to be turned once each morning as instructed by the Doctor.
3. Good vision and lighting is important. If necessary lie down with your chin elevated and mouth open. Use a flashlight for better vision. Insert the key and push back toward the throat until the key stops. You should see the next hole. Remove the key from the back.
4. In a few days, a space will develop between the two upper front teeth. This is normal and the space will close over the next few weeks.
5. Advil or Motrin are recommended as needed for the first few days.
6. Food may become stuck under the appliance. After meals, rinsing and excellent oral hygiene is very important.
7. The expansion is completed in about 3-4 weeks. However, the appliance does stay in your mouth for approximately 3-4 months. It is very important to keep regularly scheduled appointments, so we may check the appliance.
8. If you have any problems or complications with the appliance, discontinue turning and call our office for an appointment.