What are dental expanders and how are they used?

Answer by  MattK (1713)

Dental expanders of devices made of either plastic or metal, which are placed into the mouth in order to produce a constant and adjustable pressure on the soft tissue and the teeth against which the expander is placed. This allows additional room in the mouth.

Answer by  bigwig (654)

This could mean "spacers," used in orthodontia, or your child's mouth may actually need to be enlarged, i. e. by palatal expander.

Answer by  JJP (360)

Dental expanders are exactly what the word says. They are used to expand an opening in your mouth to allow for a tooth to come in to that area or to allow for teeth to move during an orthodoctic period. They are pretty painless and don't usually bother kids to have them inserted or while in place.

Answer by  Ginger (376)

Expanders are used when the childs jaw is too small to accommodate the adult teeth that will come in. This is normally associated with someone who has a cross bite and this will extend the upper dental arches width to provide room for the adult teeth as the child grows.

Answer by  Rose (6804)

Dental exandars are small plastic pieces that are placed between teeth in order to seperate them. They are often used on young children whom have cavities and or braces.

Answer by  dradke (2)

I am 40 and was just put in braces and a permanent expander that I turn every other day. The expander has been in place for 4 days now, I can barely talk and I have ulcers on my tongue and cheeks. I need relief! Any suggestions??