Expanders can still create space and correct bite width through the teenage growth years.
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A jaw expander gently widens the upper jaw to create room for teeth and correct a narrow bite.
Expanders can be spring loaded or more commonly, turn key based. We guide you through how to turn your expander, its easy.
Creating space early can reduce crowding and may mean simpler treatment — or none at all — later on.
Expanders take a little getting used to, but most children adapt within days.
You may notice a slight lisp or extra saliva for the first few days, and a small gap can appear between the front teeth as the jaw widens — this is completely normal and usually closes on its own.
Keep the expander clean by rinsing after meals, and avoid hard or sticky foods that could damage it.
A little know-how goes a long way.
Learn more about early treatment and caring for appliances.
Discover alternatives like clear aligners and ceramic braces. We’ll help you find the option that best fits your child’s needs.
Straighter teeth are easier to clean and kinder to your long-term health — the benefits go well beyond appearance.
Simple daily habits — brushing, diet and check-ups — that keep treatment on track and your child comfortable.
Parents’ top concerns answered: comfort, care, food restrictions, and what to expect with metal braces for kids.
Invisalign is one brand of clear aligner — here’s how aligner treatment works and the options we offer.
The short answer: around age 7. Here’s why early assessment matters, even if treatment can wait.
When to start treatment for children, teenagers, and adults — and why timing matters.
Book a consultation with a specialist orthodontist to talk through your options and the right treatment for you.
There’s usually a feeling of pressure for a short time after each adjustment, but it isn’t painful and settles quickly. Most children adapt within a few days, including any temporary lisp or extra saliva.
We recommend a first assessment around age 7–8. Not every child needs early treatment, but this is the ideal age to spot developing issues so we can plan the simplest possible path — whether that’s acting now or simply monitoring growth.
Every treatment is tailored to the individual, so cost depends on the complexity and length of treatment. We’ll give you a clear, itemised quote at your initial consultation, along with interest-free payment-plan options.
The process to construct a custom fitted jaw expander tailored to your mouth is simple. Utilising Orthoclinic’s state of the art intraoral scanning technology, your mouth is 3D scanned, a 3D model is printed, and a custom fitted jaw expander is made from that model.
