The Dangers of Urgently Adjusting Your Palatal Expander

Keyword: Palatal expander, orthodontic treatment, dental health

Orthodontic treatment is a carefully planned process that requires adherence to guidelines set by your orthodontist. Adjusting your palatal expander without professional guidance can result in severe pain, injuries, and permanent damage. In this article, we will explore the potential dangers of such actions and why it is imperative to follow your orthodontist's recommendations.

Understanding Palatal Expanders

A palatal expander is a device used in orthodontic treatment to widen the upper jaw, creating more space for teeth. The mechanism works on a screw or cam system that expands the device when rotated in one direction.

How Palatal Expanders Work

The palatal expander is attached to the upper jaw, with half of it anchored to the right upper teeth and the other half to the left. The device is split in the middle, with the screw mechanism centered between them. When the screw is pushed back, it rotates, causing a lateral expansion of the device by 0.25mm or 1/4 of 1mm per turn.

The Risks of Over-Adjusting

Dr. Bill V stresses the importance of following the prescribed treatment plan and the potential consequences of forcefully turning the expander:

Severe pain: Using excessive force can cause extreme discomfort. Bone fractures: The maxilla and dental alveolar structures can be damaged. Unwanted tooth extraction: Teeth may be prematurely removed due to the force applied. Palatal suture separation: The fusion between the bones in the roof of the mouth can be disrupted.

Attempting to adjust the expander 50 times at once would result in an expansion of 12.5mm, which is a significant amount and can lead to a severe traumatic injury.

Why You Should Follow Your Orthodontist's Advice

The decision to proceed with orthodontic treatment is a significant one, and it is crucial to follow the professional's guidelines. Each turn of the expander is designed to gradually and safely widen the jaw, allowing the necessary space for teeth to align correctly.

Rectifying the situation after an improper adjustment can be expensive and time-consuming. Furthermore, mistakes can have lasting effects on your dental health and the overall success of your orthodontic treatment.

Conclusion

Just because one can do something does not mean it should be done. Orthodontic treatment requires patience and adherence to the treatment plan. Always ask questions and follow your orthodontist's directions carefully to ensure the best outcome for your dental health.

Remember, the journey towards a straighter, healthier smile is worth the patience and careful attention to your healthcare professionals' recommendations.