The Palatal Expander

Your expander must be turned with a special "key."  Dr. Jusino

  will provide instructions for turning the key, and advise you as to

                                            the number of turns.  Follow the instructions carefully.

    The expander is turned by placing the "key" into the hole, which is

     located in the center screw.  Gently push the key towards the back

    of the mouth.  You will know the key has turned completely when a

                                            new hole appears in the front.

How will I know the expander is working?

       A noticeable effect of the palatal expansion appliance is a separation

  of the front teeth.  The space will begin to close naturally when the

                                           turning of the key has stopped.  The bone segments, however,

                                           will stay in the new position.  Generally speaking, Dr. Jusino

                                           leaves the expander in place for up to a year.  This will allow

                                           new bone growth in the palate (roof of the mouth) where the

                                           separation has occurred, and acts as a "retainer" to hold

                                           the space.  This is important to avoid "relapse" of the

                                           widening. 

                                           Food will have a tendency to get trapped and caught around

                                           the expander.  The WaterPik appliance Dr. Jusino provided the

                                           day the palatal expander was placed, will help irrigate the area

                                           and assist oral hygiene care.  Dr. Jusino also recommends

                                           using a fluoride rinse nightly.  Be careful to avoid excess soft

                                           drinks and sweets.

   Never turn the expander more than two (2) times/day.

                                           Sometimes turning the key of your expander will cause slight

                                           discomfort near the bridge of the nose and out toward the

                                           cheekbones.

                                           At first, it will be difficult to talk and swallow with the expander appliance,

                                           and you may notice more saliva.  It may take several days to get accustomed

                                           to the palatal expander appliance.

                                           Dr. Jusino wrote his Master's Thesis on the effects of the Palatal Expansion

                                           Appliance.

                                           Call us if you have any questions or concerns- WE CARE!  

         Office: (248) 476-3000

                              For emergencies after office hours:  (586) 856-6660                             

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