Orthodontic technology is constantly evolving, and we’re committed to staying at the forefront! One of the latest innovations is the Invisalign Palatal Expander—a modern, more comfortable alternative to traditional expanders.
So how does Invisalign’s new expander compare to traditional methods?
We’re here to break it all down:
- What a palate expander does and why it’s needed
- How Invisalign’s new palate expander works
- How it compares to a rapid palatal expander (RPE) and quad helix expander
- Who may need palate expansion and signs to watch for
What Is a Palatal Expander & Why Is It Needed?
A palate expander is an orthodontic appliance designed to widen the upper jaw (maxilla) to create more space in the mouth for all teeth to fit comfortably. Expansion is often needed when a person has insufficient space in the jaws, in order to correct bite issues, reduce crowding, and widen the palate to improve airflow.
Why Would Someone Need Palate Expansion?
Every smile is different, but there are several common reasons why your GO orthodontist may recommend a palatal expander:
- Crowded Teeth: When the upper jaw is too narrow, teeth don’t have enough space to emerge in the proper alignment. Expanding the jaw can help avoid tooth extractions in the future.
- Crossbite Issues: A crossbite happens when the upper jaw is too small, causing the upper teeth to sit inside the lower teeth, rather than outside. Palate expansion can correct this malocclusion (bite misalignment) and prevent future jaw problems.
- Breathing & Sleep Issues: A narrow palate can restrict airflow, requiring a person to breathe through their mouth, snore, or even develop sleep apnea (a harmful sleep disorder that causes periodic lapses in breathing during sleep). Expanding the jaw widens the nasal passages, improving airflow.
- Improved Facial Symmetry: A well-developed palate supports balanced facial growth, particularly in children.
How the Invisalign Palatal Expander Works
The Invisalign Palatal Expander is a removable, custom-designed, 3D-printed appliance designed to gradually widen the upper jaw in a more comfortable and discreet way compared to traditional expanders.
Key Features of the Invisalign Palatal Expander
- Removable Design – Unlike many traditional expanders, this one can be taken out for eating and cleaning, making your hygiene routine easier.
- Custom 3D Printing – Each expander is custom-designed to fit each patient’s unique smile.
- Gentle Expansion – Using a gradual force, the Invisalign Expander reduces discomfort.
- No Metal or Screws – The Invisalign Expander doesn’t require metal frameworks or manual adjustments.
How Invisalign Palate Expansion Works
- A digital scan is taken of the patient’s teeth to create a customized expansion plan.
- You’ll receive a series of removable expanders that gradually increase the width of the upper jaw.
- Each aligner is worn full-time, except when eating or cleaning, and is replaced every few weeks to continue expansion.
- Once expansion is complete, a retention phase ensures the new jaw width remains stable.
The Invisalign Palatal Expander for adults is a recent orthodontic advancement, offering a revolutionized way to expand the arch with less invasive measures.
How Invisalign’s Expander Compares to Traditional Palatal Expanders
There are three main types of palate expanders, and each has its own advantages.
1. Rapid Palatal Expander (RPE)
The Rapid Palatal Expander is a fixed metal appliance that uses a screw mechanism to widen the jaw.
- Fixed appliance – Cannot be removed, ensuring compliance
- Rapid results – Expansion typically occurs in 3–6 weeks
- Requires manual adjustments – A key is used to turn a screw to expand the device
Best for? Children and preteens whose jaws are still developing.
Downside? This type of expander can cause temporary discomfort and a gap between front teeth as expansion occurs.
2. Quad Helix Expander
The Quad Helix Expander is a fixed metal appliance attached to the molars that uses springs to apply continuous, gentle pressure for slower expansion.
- No manual adjustments required – The appliance works continuously.
- Great for correcting crowding and mild crossbites.
- Less discomfort compared to RPE since pressure is applied gradually.
Best for? Mild to moderate expansion needs in younger patients.
Downside? Because it’s a fixed appliance, it can make oral hygiene more difficult and may require longer treatment times.
3. Invisalign Palatal Expander (New!)
The Invisalign Palatal Expander is a removable, clear appliance that gradually expands the upper jaw without screws or metal components.
- More comfortable than traditional expanders.
- No food restrictions – Since it’s removable, patients can eat normally.
- Easier to clean – Unlike fixed expanders, patients can brush and floss with ease.
Best for? Patients seeking a discreet, gradual, and removable expansion option.
Downside? Requires consistent wear to be effective—patients must be responsible enough to wear it full-time.
Signs That You May Need a Palatal Expander
Not sure if you or your child needs palatal expansion? When you visit one of our orthodontist offices for your complimentary consultation, one of our experienced doctors will examine your smile and determine whether expansion is necessary.
In the meantime, here are some common signs that can indicate a need for expansion:
- Narrow smile or crowded teeth
- Difficulty chewing or biting properly
- Frequent mouth breathing
- Speech issues (lisps or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds)
- Recessed chin or facial asymmetry
If any of these symptoms sound familiar, come see your GO orthodontist in Collierville, Corinth, Oxford, Saltillo or Southaven!
Beautiful smiles are made here!
The Invisalign Palatal Expander is a game-changing alternative to traditional expansion devices. With a removable, more comfortable, custom design, you’ll get all of the benefits of expansion with minimal disruption to your lifestyle.
At GO Orthodontics, we offer both traditional and Invisalign palatal expanders based on each patient’s needs. If you’re wondering whether palatal expansion is right for you or your child, let’s get your first visit in the books!
