Orthodontics

Palatal Expansion

A palatal expander gently widens the upper jaw while a child is still growing, creating room for crowded teeth and correcting bite problems before they get bigger.

All Orthodontics

What Is a Palatal Expander?

A palatal expander is a custom appliance that fits across the roof of the mouth and applies gentle, gradual pressure to widen the upper jaw. Because a child's jaw is still developing, this creates space naturally, and can prevent more involved treatment later.

Creates room naturally

Gentle, gradual widening while the jaw is still developing.

Prevents bigger work

Fixing crowding and crossbites early can simplify or avoid later treatment.

Kids adjust quickly

Most children get used to their expander within a few days.

How Expansion Works

A steady, gentle process with support at every step.

Custom fit

The expander is made to fit your child's mouth precisely and comfortably.

Small daily turns

We show you exactly how to make the tiny adjustments at home.

Gradual widening

Over several months, the upper jaw gently widens to create room.

A short hold

The expander stays briefly to let the new width settle in place.

We're a call away

Questions about turning or cleaning the expander? Call (801) 676-3700 anytime, and we'll walk you through it.

Why Widen Early?

Expanders help with crowding, crossbites, and a narrow upper jaw. Creating room while the jaw is still growing guides incoming permanent teeth into better positions, and is often part of early (Phase 1) treatment. Once growth is complete, the same correction becomes much more involved, so timing is everything.

Who It's For, and Is It Comfortable?

Children whose upper jaw is narrow or whose teeth are crowding are the typical candidates, and Dr. Wendy Chu will let you know if your child is a good fit. Most children adjust within a few days. There may be mild pressure as the jaw widens, but it shouldn't be painful, and we'll show you exactly how to adjust and clean the expander at home.

A little room made now, while your child is growing, can spare them much bigger treatment later.

Common questions

How long does my child wear an expander?

Typically several months, depending on how much widening is needed, followed by a short holding period. Dr. Chu will outline the timeline for your child.