Palatal/airway Expansion Devices in Riverside and Chino CA

Orthodontic palatal expansion devices, such as rapid palatal expanders (RPEs), are tools used to gently widen the upper jaw over time. This treatment is often done in children and teens while the bones are still growing and flexible. By turning a small screw in the device regularly, gentle pressure is applied to the two halves of the upper jaw, encouraging them to move apart. For a growing child, the separation later is filled with new bone formation. As the palate expands, the floor of the nasal cavity also widens. This can lead to improved airflow through the nose, making it easier to breathe, especially at night. In some cases, palatal expansion can help reduce symptoms of snoring, mouth breathing, or even mild sleep apnea. While the most predictable airway benefits occur in growing patients, some adults may still benefit through specialized expansion techniques. It’s important to evaluate each patient carefully, sometimes with input from sleep specialists or ENT doctors, to determine if expansion is appropriate.