Managing a palate expander - whether it's yours or your child's - is easier with a few changes in nutrition, oral hygiene procedures, and a daily schedule. Technically, this orthodontic device is called a rapid palatal expander (ERP), it is applied to the hard palate and anchored to the upper teeth for a period ranging from two to several months. During this time, the appliance gradually widens the width of the two halves (not yet fused) of the palate to correct a variety of orthodontic problems, including dental crowding and malocclusions. Palatine expanders are most effective on children whose bone joints are not yet fused, but they can also be used on adult patients.
Steps
Method 1 of 4: Eating and Drinking with a Palatal Expander
Step 1. Stock up on your favorite sodas and soft foods
Choose foods that are nutritious, but don't have to be overly chewed. They can be yogurt, healthy smoothies, ice cream, pureed vegetables such as potatoes, zucchini or yam, or mashed bananas, soups and so on.
Step 2. Take small bites and chew gently
Remember that the expander literally separates the two halves of the upper jaw by applying pressure to the bones of the face. In all likelihood, you will end up chewing using teeth that the brace is not anchored to.
Step 3. Sip slowly and use a thin straw
It is easier to ingest liquids than solid foods, because the tongue does not have to move the food in the mouth to chew it, it just has to cooperate in the swallowing process.
Step 4. Clean your mouth often
When you wear this device, you produce more saliva. Keep a handkerchief or napkin handy and wipe away any excess saliva to stay dry and clean.
Step 5. Eat your favorite solid foods when you feel little discomfort
Take advantage when you can! Over time, you will be able to enjoy a good plate of pasta, sandwiches and even pizza.
Method 2 of 4: Keep the Palatine Expander Clean
Step 1. Continue brushing and flossing every day
This is a good oral hygiene practice that must be maintained regularly. The time has come to respect this habit!
Step 2. Consider purchasing a water jet to make cleaning easier and more comfortable
The water jet generates a thin stream of pressurized water that manages to reach the most difficult points of the mouth; it is a highly recommended device for taking care of orthodontic appliances and other devices.
Pay particular attention to the center gears, screws, edges of the expander, and any points that come into contact with the gums
Step 3. Bring a normal sized toothbrush and a small one with you when dining out
Kindly say goodbye to diners and go to the bathroom to brush off any bits of food that may be left between your teeth and on the braces.
Method 3 of 4: Change your own or a child's palatal expander
Step 1. Follow the orthodontist's instructions regarding how often to change the device
This can vary from once a day up to two or three daily adjustments, depending on the degree of dilation to be obtained and the other orthodontic procedures that are indispensable during the process, for example the application of an appliance.
- Try to be constant as much as possible;
- If you know that the program may be interrupted or you plan to postpone an adjustment, contact your doctor first.
Step 2. Find the "key" that the orthodontist gave you
It consists of an instrument, usually a small metal stick, which is inserted into the central screw of the gear and which applies the lateral force necessary to achieve dilation of the palate.
If the key does not have a safety tie, attach a long string or segment of floss to one end. This way, you can easily retrieve the tool in case it falls into the child's mouth
Step 3. Insert the wrench into the sun gear screw hole
In most cases, the instrument should be primed in a hole slightly inclined towards the back of the upper arch (in practice, it points towards the outside of the mouth).
- If you do this yourself, do it in front of a mirror and in a well-lit room.
- If you need to adjust the expander of a child or young boy, ask him to lie down and open his mouth as much as possible to avoid the gag reflex in case you accidentally touch his uvula. Make sure you have enough light to see clearly, use a flashlight if necessary.
Step 4. Turn the key as far as it will go
After inserting it and making sure it is not touching the mucous membrane of the palate, slowly rotate it towards the back of the throat, applying steady pressure until it stops.
Step 5. Carefully remove the key from your or baby's mouth
Clean it and store it in a safe place.
Step 6. Follow the checkup and appointment schedule with the orthodontist
Most doctors will want to see you once a week to assess progress and address any issues.
For convenience, make a list of doubts as they arise
Method 4 of 4: Manage Pain and Discomfort Caused by the Palatine Expander
Step 1. Take some liquid ibuprofen half an hour before adjusting the expander
The drug helps relieve the inflammation and discomfort you will experience in the hour following the dilation.
Step 2. Change your device after meals
That way, you've already eaten and your mouth has a chance to rest as you try to manage the pain, pressure, and discomfort.
Step 3. Relax and apply an ice pack to your cheeks after adjusting the expander
Even this little precaution allows you to soothe the inflamed area.
Step 4. Treat yourself to a treat, such as a small ice cream or cold drink
Low temperatures help control and mask inflammation.
Step 5. Use dental wax to protect soft tissue from friction
You can buy it in all pharmacies; it has the purpose of forming a removable and reusable barrier between the hard structure of the expander and the mucous membranes of the oral cavity.
Step 6. Apply a gel anesthetic to numb your mouth and reduce pain if you have a chronic cut or sore spot
You can also regularly gargle with warm salt water to relieve the occasional sore
Advice
- Keep in touch with the orthodontist and don't be afraid to ask him questions.
- If you feel frustrated and angry about this type of therapy, talk to family and friends about it.
- Remember that the time will come to remove the expander, while your fantastic smile will remain forever!
- Go to the dentist regularly.
Warnings
- You will notice changes in pronunciation, especially in the beginning. This phenomenon is due to the fact that the muscles that control speech are perfectly in tune with the original shape of your mouth, which is now altered by a "strange" device. With a little practice, even the pronunciation of the most difficult consonants will become easier within a few days. Be patient!
- Avoid eating hard candies, toffee, very crunchy or sticky foods, as they can damage your expensive expander.
