There are certain types of orthodontic problems that are caused by the lack of enough bone growth to accommodate the upper teeth. In other cases there is room for the upper teeth but the palate, or roof of the mouth, is so narrow that speech is impaired or made difficult. In still another type, the palate is so high that it actually cuts down on the amount of air that can pass though the nose, so that deep breathing, without opening the mouth, is almost impossible. In all of these cases, a palate expanding device is most helpful.

It may sound pretty drastic, though it really isn’t. The upper jaw (maxilla) is joined in the center by a suture, or joint, which allows it to be painlessly separated and spread. Temporarily you may see a space develop between your upper two front teeth. This will slowly go away in a few days. Once this has occurred, the two halves knit back together and new bone is laid down to make the jaw wider.

So, that's how a palatal spreading device works. It won't hurt. Your teeth will be a bit uncomfortable for a day or two, and sometimes, about a week after the device is cemented into place, you may feel a little "itching" in the roof of your moth. Don't worry, this is normal, because the fibers there stretch and expand.

This palatal expanding device is cemented in place and the screw must be turned by you or your parents each day - usually once a day (preferably the same time of the day).

The key is inserted into the hole and then pushed all the way to the back of the mouth. This will bring the next hole into view. If the key does not have a handle, the string is always looped around the finger or over the wrist, as desired, to prevent the possibility of your swallowing it.

After the palate has been widened enough, it is necessary to hold it so new bone will fill in the space.

Special care must be given to keep this appliance clean:

1. Brush as usual
2. Use the water pick to flush out between the plastic (or wire) and the roof of your mouth
3. Use your favorite mouthwash to swish it clean