Why are we not able to wear an expander but are able to wear braces? Does the expander changes the way you breath or talk?

Question

How is it that if an adult stops growing and are not able to wear a palatel expander but are able to wear braces yet our teeth are constantly moving? Does not the suture moves with it? I mean I am 46 and thinking about getting one since my son had to wear it and it does a nice job. Does the expander changes the way you breath or talk?

Sarah Thompson, DMD · Answer

A palatal expander is best used on those still growing.  If you use an expander, it likely won't help that much at 46 years old.  I recommend that you consult a cosmetic dentist to discuss your options.  Good luck to you and I hope this helps. "Follow" me on Real Self to ask more questions of me.Sarah Thompson, DMD O'Fallon, IL and St. Louis, MO

Michael Tam, BDS · Answer

An expander is used
for growth modification of the palate when a patient is still growing and
physically maturing. Once the palate is through developing, the plates and
fissures calcify and do not grow or allow for change after growth is complete.
Braces on the other hand, affect the ligaments and periodontal bone around each
tooth. Every ligament offers some movement, and the pressure applied with the
braces will radiate through the ligaments into the bone, causing bone to
relocate where it is needed (less on one side and more on another).

Robert Waxler, DMD, MS · Answer

Orthodontic treatment moves teeth THROUGH the existing bone whereas palatal expanders actually separate bones.  After a certain age however the palatal bones fuse together and thus cannot be separated.  Orthodontist like to work on children if they can because most problems are a combination of a skeletal and a dental problem...With kids you can work on both aspects but adults all you can do is move teeth. For major skeletal problems in adults surgery is required to achieve an ideal result

Why are we not able to wear an expander but are able to wear braces? Does the expander changes the way you breath or talk?

Answers (3)

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