Orthodontic Expanders in St Luke's

Comprehensive Orthodontic Expanders Consultation

Your journey towards a healthier smile begins with a thorough consultation and assessment at London Dental Specialists. Our expert orthodontists conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your dental structure to determine if an orthodontic expander is the right solution for you. This initial visit is crucial in developing a personalised treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

During your consultation, we will:

• Perform a detailed oral examination


• Take digital X-rays and 3D scans of your teeth and jaw


• Assess your bite alignment and jaw structure


• Discuss your concerns and treatment goals


• Explain the benefits and process of using orthodontic expanders

Our state-of-the-art diagnostic tools allow us to create precise measurements of your upper jaw, enabling us to design an expander that will achieve the perfect fit and desired results for your specific case.

What to Expect During Your Consultation

Our specialist orthodontists will explain how the expander works to gradually widen your upper jaw, creating proper alignment and addressing issues such as crossbites or overcrowding. We'll discuss the types of expanders available, including rapid palatal expanders and removable expanders, and recommend the most suitable option for your needs.

The consultation concludes with a detailed discussion where we'll answer all your questions about the treatment process, ensuring you feel fully informed and confident about proceeding with your dental expansion journey. We'll provide you with information on:

• Expected treatment duration


• Care and maintenance of your expander


• Potential adjustments to eating and speaking


• Follow-up appointments and progress monitoring

At London Dental Specialists, we prioritise your comfort and understanding throughout the entire process. Our team is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality care and ensuring that you have all the information needed to make an informed decision about your orthodontic treatment.

Customised Orthodontic Expander Treatment Plan

Following your comprehensive consultation, our specialist orthodontists at London Dental Specialists will create a bespoke treatment plan for your orthodontic expander. This personalised approach ensures that your expansion treatment is tailored to your specific dental needs and goals.

Key Components of Your Custom Treatment Plan

• Expander Type Selection: Based on your jaw structure and expansion needs


• Expansion Timeline: Detailed schedule for activation and adjustments


• 3D Treatment Simulation: Visual representation of expected outcomes


• Monitoring Schedule: Regular check-ups to track progress


• Integration with Overall Orthodontic Care: Coordination with other treatments if necessary

Our state-of-the-art 3D imaging technology allows us to create precise measurements of your upper jaw, enabling us to design an expander that will achieve the perfect fit and desired results for your specific case.

Types of Expanders We Offer

Your treatment plan will include a detailed expansion protocol, outlining the frequency of adjustments and the expected duration of treatment. We'll provide clear instructions on how to activate your expander and what sensations to expect during the expansion process.

What to Expect in Your Treatment Plan

1. Initial Fitting: Custom-made expander placement and adjustment


2. Activation Phase: Regular turning of the expander as prescribed


3. Progress Checks: Periodic visits to monitor expansion and make adjustments


4. Retention Period: Wearing the expander to stabilise the expansion


5. Follow-up Care: Ensuring long-term success of the treatment

At London Dental Specialists, we prioritise your comfort and understanding throughout the entire process. Our team will thoroughly explain each aspect of your treatment plan, ensuring you feel confident and informed about your orthodontic journey.

We'll also discuss potential temporary effects such as speech changes or minor discomfort, and provide strategies to manage these effectively. Our goal is to make your expansion treatment as smooth and comfortable as possible while achieving optimal results for your smile.

Orthodontic Expanders Treatment Procedures

At London Dental Specialists, we utilise advanced orthodontic expanders to effectively widen your upper jaw and correct dental issues. Our treatment procedures are designed to ensure optimal results with minimal discomfort. Here's what you can expect during your orthodontic expander treatment:

Fitting Your Custom Expander

The first step in your treatment is the precise fitting of your custom-made orthodontic expander. Our skilled orthodontists will carefully place the expander in your mouth, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit. This process typically involves:

• Cleaning and preparing your teeth


• Applying a special dental adhesive


• Positioning the expander correctly


• Allowing the adhesive to set


• Making final adjustments for comfort

We use state-of-the-art technology to ensure that your expander is perfectly tailored to your mouth's unique shape and size.

Activation and Adjustment Process

Once your expander is fitted, we'll provide detailed instructions on how to activate it. This usually involves turning a small key to gradually widen the expander. The activation schedule typically includes:

Our team will closely monitor your progress through regular check-ups, typically every 2-3 weeks. During these appointments, we'll assess the expansion progress and make any necessary adjustments to ensure optimal results.

Managing Comfort and Care

While orthodontic expanders are generally well-tolerated, some patients may experience mild discomfort or pressure. To help manage this, we recommend:

• Taking over-the-counter pain relievers as needed


• Eating soft foods during the initial adjustment period


• Maintaining excellent oral hygiene to prevent irritation


• Using warm salt water rinses to soothe any soreness

Our team is always available to address any concerns and provide guidance throughout your treatment.

Retention and Follow-up Care

After achieving the desired expansion, a retention period is crucial to stabilise the new jaw position. This typically involves:

1. Wearing the expander without further activation for 3-6 months


2. Regular check-ups to monitor bone formation and stability


3. Transitioning to a retainer or other orthodontic appliances as needed

At London Dental Specialists, we're committed to ensuring the long-term success of your orthodontic treatment. Our comprehensive aftercare programme includes personalised advice on maintaining your newly expanded jaw and improved dental alignment.

With our expert care and advanced techniques, you can look forward to a healthier, more aligned smile. Our orthodontic expander treatments are designed to not only improve your dental function but also enhance your overall facial aesthetics.

Post Orthodontic Expanders Treatment Care

Proper aftercare is essential for maintaining the results achieved with your orthodontic expander at London Dental Specialists. Once your expansion treatment is complete, our team provides comprehensive guidance to ensure your newly widened jaw and improved dental alignment remain stable for years to come.

Essential Aftercare Practices

• Retention Period: Wearing your retainer as prescribed to prevent relapse


• Enhanced Oral Hygiene: Following specialised cleaning protocols


• Regular Check-ups: Attending scheduled monitoring appointments


• Dietary Considerations: Avoiding foods that could compromise results

The retention phase is crucial for long-term success with your palatal expansion treatment. After active expansion is complete, the newly formed bone needs time to stabilise. Our orthodontists will provide you with a custom retainer designed to maintain your expanded arch width while allowing your teeth to settle into their optimal positions.

Your Aftercare Timeline

Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is particularly important following expander treatment. Our dental hygienists will demonstrate specialised cleaning techniques to ensure all areas around your retainer remain free from plaque and debris. We recommend:

• Brushing thoroughly at least twice daily with a soft-bristled brush


• Using interdental brushes or water flossers to clean hard-to-reach areas


• Regular professional cleanings every 4-6 months


• Daily fluoride rinses to strengthen enamel

At London Dental Specialists, we provide ongoing support through scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor your dental alignment and jaw stability. These check-ups allow us to address any concerns promptly and make adjustments to your retention plan if necessary.

Long-term Benefits of Proper Aftercare

1. Stable Results: Maintaining the width achieved through expansion


2. Improved Breathing: Preserving enhanced nasal airway function


3. Proper Bite Alignment: Ensuring continued proper occlusion


4. Prevention of Relapse: Avoiding the need for additional treatment


5. Oral Health Protection: Reducing risk of future dental issues

Our comprehensive aftercare programme includes personalised advice on maintaining your newly expanded jaw and improved dental alignment. We're committed to ensuring you enjoy the full benefits of your orthodontic expander treatment for years to come.

Should you experience any concerns or have questions about your post-treatment care, our dedicated team at London Dental Specialists is always available to provide prompt assistance and expert guidance.