Lexicon
Palate expansion
A palatal expansion or GNE is an orthodontic treatment method that aims to widen an upper jaw that is too narrow. It is used when there is a difference in width between the upper and lower jaw.
Author
Dr. Fabian von Rom
Date
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approx. 5 Min
Palate expansion
Contents
Difference to extension with loose braces
When expanding with loose braces, the dimensions of the jaw are not changed. With removable braces (expansion plate), only the teeth are moved and “tilted outwards”. With palatal expansion, on the other hand, the expansion takes place at jaw level. A largely invisible, fixed brace with expansion wheels in the palate area is used for this.
How the palatal expansion works
In childhood and adolescence, the right and left parts of the upper jaw lie next to each other. The frequently used term “palatal separation” is misleading. The wheel-turning movement does not cause the two parts of the palate to explode, but rather moves them slowly and deliberately apart. As a result, new jawbone is created between the two parts. This widens the upper jaw. The lower jaw serves as a reference for the required extent of palatal expansion, as the width of the lower jaw cannot be changed at jaw level.
Aim of the palatal expansion
The goal is achieved by correctly adjusting the width of the upper jaw to the unchanging lower jaw. In addition, the widening of the upper jaw provides important space for the elimination of any existing crowding.
Palatal expansion for adults
As the right and left parts of the upper jaw are significantly more interlocked and fused together in adults, palatal expansion is only possible with surgical weakening in the sense of a so-called surgically assisted palatal expansion. Here, the orthodontist and an oral and maxillofacial surgeon work closely together.
Positive side effect of palatal expansion
In addition to correcting jaw misalignment and gaining space for the teeth, palatal expansion has a positive effect on nasal breathing. As the roof of the mouth is also the floor of the nose, palatal expansion creates a widening of the nasal airway. Patients often report a positive before-and-after sensation when breathing.
Palatal expansion in our orthodontic practice in Munich – Unterföhring
With the GNE braces used in our practice, the jaw widens by 0.2 mm per rotation. In most cases, we recommend 2 activations per day. How often the GNE should be rotated depends on how much expansion of the upper jaw is desired. In extreme cases, distances of over 10 mm are possible. The palatal expansion creates a relatively large gap between the upper central incisors – corresponding to the expansion distance. However, it usually closes again spontaneously, while the upper jaw retains its extended size.
For a lasting result, stabilization is essential after active expansion. To achieve this, the palatal expansion remains in the mouth for 4-9 months without further screwing. After that, treatment is usually continued with a different brace. Depending on the misalignment, loose braces or brackets are used.
Your expert for orthodontics
Dr. Fabian von Rom
In the specialist practice for orthodontics, Dr. med, dent. Fabian von Rom uses his extensive expertise and many years of experience to offer patients the best possible care. The practice offers the entire spectrum of modern orthodontics and specializes in innovative and advanced treatment methods. In addition to traditional procedures, the focus is on treatment with invisible braces for teenagers and adults – one of the most modern and discreet solutions in orthodontics. Dr. med. dent. Fabian von Rom attaches great importance to ensuring that medical precision goes hand in hand with a high level of patient satisfaction. By equipping the practice exclusively with individual treatment rooms, individual and professional care at the highest level is guaranteed.
Further topics
In our guide you will find lots more information on current, relevant and interesting topics relating to orthodontics. We hope you enjoy reading it!
