Could I benefit from adult palate expansion? (photos)

Question

I am 24 years old, and have always been insecure of my smile due to my palate seeming too small for my mouth. Additionally, my two front teeth are different lengths. I knocked out one of them as a toddler and I'm not sure if that caused the adult teeth to be significantly different or not. Regardless, what would be the best method to treat this? Thanks!

Lance Timmerman, DMD, MAGD · Answer

There is SOME debate out there, but my opinion is that you will benefit, both aesthetically and functionally (more room means better airway).  The trauma to the front tooth may have caused ankylosis, the root fused to the bone.  The adjacent teeth can move as the jaw develops, but the fused tooth will not.  If it IS fused, braces won't work and porcelain veneers will get a symmetrical look.  If it is NOT fused, then I suggest ortho to get thing lined up better.  Ortho MIGHT be able to be done at the same time as the palatal expansion.  I find that slow and steady expansion is best, and then stabilized for 6 months for the bone to adapt.

Ira Shapira, DDS · Answer

Epigenetic Othodomtics with the DNA Appliance or SARPE procedure are the best alternatives for adult Expansion.SARPE:  Surgically Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion involes cutting the maxilla mid palattal bone and cranil connections and a palatal screw.  It is an effective solution.  It is normally done by an oral surgeon and orthodontist working as a team.In my opinion the best alternative is a DNA Appliance which gradually expands the maxilla well being worn 12-14 hours / day  It is a more comfortable approach but because it is a removable appliance requires a higher level of patient cooperation.  It is amzing how well it works in most cases.Ira L Shapira DDS     .. Diplomat, American Academy of Pain Management     ...Diplomate, American Board of Dental Sleep  Medicine   ....Regent & Fellow, International College CranioMandibular Orthopedics     ..Board Eligible,  American Academy of CranioFacial Pain      ..Chair,  American Alliance of TMD Organizations      ...ThinkBetterLife.com

Could I benefit from adult palate expansion? (photos)

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Could I benefit from adult palate expansion? (photos)

Answers (2)

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Everything you need to know about Braces

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.