Follow the arrows facing towards the back of the mouth to apply a small amount of pressure to swivel the key in their direction, completing a 90 degree turn on the key. As you turn, the fender rotates and a new hole becomes visible. The rotation stops when the key meets the back of the expander.
What do you do if your expander won’t turn?
Sometimes the appliance screw can turn backward. In that case, the hole may be further back on the appliance. To correct this, insert the key in the hole facing the back of the expander and push it in the direction of the arrow (toward the throat) until the next hole is visible at the front of the appliance.
How long do you have to turn a palate expander?
The expander will be activated ONLY one time a day, for approximately 28-42 turns. Do not turn more than prescribed by Dr. Stormberg. If an unusual amount of discomfort is felt and medication is not relieving the discomfort, skip a day.
How do you turn an expander on without a key?
Try laying down on your back and having an adult turn your expander with the help of a flashlight if necessary. If you do have to turn the expander yourself, position yourself in front of a mirror with one hand shining light into your mouth while the other hand uses the key.
How do you get stuck food out of a expander?
Food particles can get stuck under the expander, so ask your dentist for advice. Such recommendations could include a special syringe with water to flush out debris. There is also a flexible palate cleaner that fits under the expander and can push out food particles.
Can you turn your palate expander yourself?
While you can turn your expander yourself, it’ll be trickier to see the inside of your mouth. Have a family member or other adult turn the expander for you to make the process easier. Try laying down on your back and having an adult turn your expander with the help of a flashlight if necessary.
Which direction do you turn an expander?
Whether you have an upper expander or a lower one, the key will always be turned towards the back of your mouth.
Can adults expand palate?
As explained elsewhere on this site, palatal expansion is a simple procedure in children. However, the adult bone structure is set and can no longer undergo expansion unless it is assisted by a surgeon.
How do you get food unstuck from a palatal expander?
Is there a removable palate expander?
If only a small amount of jaw widening is needed, your orthodontist may recommend a removable palate expander. There are several different removal brands. Removable palate expanders are meant to be worn 24 hours a day, except while eating, playing sports, and brushing teeth.
Why won’t my palate expander key turn?
Orthodontists highly recommend for patients to wash the hardware and the mouth generally three times per day ( once after every meal), because ignoring this will make food trap between the palate expander and the roof of the mouth which is for sure one of the main reasons why palate expander key won’t turn.
How long will I have to live with a palate expander?
You may have to live with your palate expander for weeks or even years, so follow these tips to make sure that it doesn’t interfere with your everyday activities and overall well-being. Just remind yourself that it’s worth it all for a great smile! Good luck!
Is it hard to live with a jaw expander?
Never fear! A beautiful smile takes time and while the expander may cause some discomfort and problems, there are a few tips and tricks to make living with your expander easier. Expanders are used to widen the upper maxillary arch (the upper jawbone). This may be a long and lengthy process and discomfort is unfortunately, part of the game.
Can I use an expander if I have a lisp?
While there really is no way around the lisp, you’ll find that as your mouth gets accustomed to the expander, your speech will become clearer. For some this takes longer than others and the lisp may never go away completely. To combat the speech issue, try the following exercise:
