Friday, February 22, 2013

Why Dr. Bardawil prefer Insignia Braces for his patients.

Dr.george bardawil -ORTHODONTIST www.drgeorgebardawil.com, info@drgeorgebardawil.com, Invisalign &Insignia Braces premier provider, speciality clinics center, st maamari,12th floor hamra,beirut lebanon Hamra clinic 961-1-747644 Fanar clinic 961-1-873718 mobile 961-3-542724

Why Dr. Bardawil prefer Insignia Braces for his patients.

The Most Advanced Technology

Like fingerprints, your smile is unique. And so is Insignia, a computerized system that combines digital treatment planning with specially made brackets and wires tailored to your specific dental anatomy.
The process is simple. Following an initial examination, your orthodontist will take an impression of your teeth for the Insignia smile design lab. Sophisticated imaging software then creates a 3-D representation of your bite while braces and wires are custom-fabricated with your exact prescription.

Fast, Comfortable Treatment

Insignia treatment is tailored to the individual patient. Each aspect is precisely calculated to affect tooth movement in the most optimal way, resulting in fewer office visits and exceptional comfort. And because treatment is 100% personalized, patients often see a reduction in the amount of time they would ordinarily wear braces.
Insignia is ideal for everyone – from the adult with the hectic schedule to the teen who wants to be out of braces and on with their smile.

Precise, Predictable Results

Now you can see your end result before starting treatment. Utilizing the 3-D representation of your exact tooth positioning, Insignia calculates the most optimal orthodontic plan for you. You're able to view, with precision accuracy, the correct curvature and width of the best smile specifically proportioned to your facial features. Unlike off-the-shelf braces and wires, a treatment plan developed with Insignia creates a layer of meticulous detail that provides fast, accurate and predictable results.

Monday, February 18, 2013

Snoring -Sleep Apnea

Sleep Apnea

Are you drowsy during the day with no explanation? Do you snore loudly, or wake up breathless in the middle of the night? If so, you may be one of more than twelve million Americans affected by sleep apnea.

What is sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is a condition in which breathing stops periodically during sleep, as many as 20-30 times per hour. ("Apnea" is the Greek word for "without breath.") If you suffer from sleep apnea, each time your breathing stops, the resulting lack of oxygen alerts your brain, which temporarily wakes you up to restart proper breathing. Because the time spent awake is so brief, most people with sleep apnea don't remember it - and many think they are getting a good night's sleep. However, the constant wake-sleep-wake-sleep cycle precludes the deep sleep that refreshes the body, and sufferers are frequently drowsy during the day.

What are the signs of sleep apnea?

The following symptoms can indicate the presence of sleep apnea. If you notice one or more of these, give us a call, and we can refer you to a sleep apnea specialist.

Insomnia or difficulty sleeping
Loud snoring at night
Waking up at night short of breath
Snorting or choking sounds during the night (indicating a restart of breathing)
Headaches upon waking in the morning
Falling asleep unintentionally during the day
Extreme drowsiness throughout the day

What are risk factors for sleep apnea?

Obstructive sleep apnea is more common in males than females, and more common in older adults (40 and up) than younger adults and children. However, anyone – regardless of gender or age – can suffer from sleep apnea. Other risk factors include obesity, smoking, drinking, use of sedatives or tranquilizers, high blood pressure, and family history. Central sleep apnea strikes most often in people with heart disorders, neuromuscular disorders, strokes, or brain tumors. It is also more common in males.

Is sleep apnea dangerous?

Sleep apnea is considered a serious medical problem and if left untreated can lead to high blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart failure and stroke. The ongoing state of fatigue caused by sleep apnea can lead to problems at work or school, as well as danger when operating cars or other heavy machinery. Sleep apnea can also cause complications with medication or surgery: sedation by anesthesia can be risky, as can lying flat in bed after an operation. If you know or suspect you suffer from sleep apnea, alert any doctors who prescribe medication or advise surgery.

How is sleep apnea treated?

Treatments range widely and depend on the severity of the problem and the type of apnea. Basic treatment can be behavioral - for instance, patients are instructed to lose weight, stop smoking, or sleep on their sides instead of on their backs. Beyond that, oral devices can be used to position the mouth in such a way that prevents throat blockage. In more severe cases, surgery may be the best option.
Give us a call , and we can refer you to a sleep apnea specialist. The specialist may recommend a "sleep study" to diagnose the precise extent of the problem, and can prescribe appropriate treatment. Depending on your situation, treatment may involve an oral device that we can custom-create for you.

Dr.george bardawil -ORTHODONTIST www.drgeorgebardawil.com, info@drgeorgebardawil.com, Invisalign premier provider, speciality clinics center, st maamari,12th floor hamra,beirut lebanon Hamra clinic 961-1-747644 Fanar clinic 961-1-873718 mobile 961-3-542724

Wednesday, February 13, 2013

What is Interproximal reduction?

Interproximal Reduction is it safe?

Interproximal reduction is the removal of a small amount of enamel from between the teeth to reduce their width. It’s a way to acquire additional space between adjacent teeth to create ideal tooth alignment during orthodontic treatment. Interproximal reduction (IPR) is also known as reproximation, slenderizing, stripping, enamel reduction or selective reduction.
Some patients can be put off by the the idea of having to have their teeth slightly reshaped during orthodontic treatment to achieve ideal results. But, there are many benefits to IPR.
I mentioned that IPR is a way of creating space to improve tooth alignment, but it is also used to improve the bite. I often use IPR to improve the appearance of the teeth for a better aesthetic appearance. In certain cases, it alleviates the need for permanent tooth extractions, and many times, IPR can increase the stability of the teeth so that they are able to retain their placement over time. Further, it can also reduce what we call black triangles. Black triangles are created when there is an absence of gum tissue between two teeth and it looks like there is a dark triangular space or hole between the teeth, even though the teeth may be properly aligned.
To execute interproximal reduction, I typically use either a diamond strip (looks like a slate strip or nail filing strip) and move it in between the teeth, or I’ll use a dental handpiece that looks like a small dremel. IPR is not uncomfortable or painful for the patient in any way, but the sound of the file can cause some unease. It will not lead to and increase in tooth decay or gum disease. The important thing to remember is that IPR is a very safe and effective way of achieving ideal tooth alignment.

Thursday, January 31, 2013

Can your toothbrush make you sick?

The dreaded cold and flu season is here again! This raises a common question around our office: should your replace your toothbrush if you’ve been sick?
Since the flu is a viral infection, you develop antibodies once you’ve been infected. This helps prevent you from catching the same illness twice. Even for bacterial infections, the likelihood of becoming re-infected from your toothbrush is fairly slim for minor illnesses like the common cold. Also, toothpaste frequently contains antibacterial compounds, which further decreases your chances of re-infection.
The American Dental Association recommends the following tips for toothbrush care:
• Do not share toothbrushes, especially if you are sick
• Allow the brush to air dry after each use
• Store the toothbrush in an upright position to allow water to drain and dry faster
• Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months. Worn bristles are less effective in properly cleaning your teeth, and can actually be damaging to teeth if used too long!
We hope these tips help! Feel free to give us a call or ask us on Facebook if you have any

Thursday, January 24, 2013

what can I eat with braces?

Patient Question: What Can I Eat With Braces?

We love when patients ask us that question! Now that you’re wearing braces, it’s just as important to maintain a good oral hygiene regimen as you did before your orthodontic treatment began. The first few days in braces are going to be more difficult to eat than normal. There will be a slight discomfort when you first get your braces on, so the act of chewing will make it more painful.
Here are a few soft foods that do not require you to do much chewing and are easy to chew on when your teeth are sore.
Ice cream, yogurt, pudding, cool soups, Jell-O, scrambled eggs, cream of wheat, baked potatoes, soft cooked pasta, soup, bananas, cottage cheese, smoothies, macaroni and cheese, pancakes, soft cheeses, and milk are all foods you can eat safely without having to worry about pain or breaking your brackets.
Be sure to always check with us if you have questions about a particular food item by either giving us a call or asking us on Facebook!

Thursday, January 17, 2013

Insignia braces

Insignia Braces, Beirut lebanon

For the best thing to happen to your smile since the toothbrush, look no further than Insignia braces. Jacksonville Beach patients can now experience this revolutionary technology first hand at Patel & Carden Breaches Orthodontics. What makes Insignia different? This system combines your doctor’s education, experience and insight with 3-D computer modeling to produce your prefect smile, before the braces are ever applied!
First, during your free consultation, your orthodontist will determine if Insignia braces are right for you. Next, precise impressions are taken of your teeth and bite which are then sent off to the Insignia Smile Lab. Your impressions are scanned and brought into a 3-D modeling system as a single upper and lower jaw. Then, through specialized software and a team of computer modeling technicians, each tooth is separated so it can be digitally manipulated. Your Orthodontist is then able to digitally place your custom brackets on each tooth, time-lapse your smile forward and see the results. Brackets are adjusted and this process is repeated until the desired result is achieved.
Your next meeting with the doctor will be to approve your new smile. The approval is sent back to the Insignia Smile Lab and your custom brackets are manufactured. This initial process can take up to 35% off the treatment time as fewer physical adjustments are necessary since they were done digitally. By taking the “guess work” out of orthodontics, you will achieve the smile you’ve always wanted, faster than you ever thought possible.
During the application process, each of your custom fit Insignia brackets are positioned on your teeth precisely where the computer model indicated. Once applied, the brackets are fitted with one-of-a-kind wires made especially for you based on the treatment plan set by your orthodontist. You will in several weeks to check on the progress of the treatment. Many patients experience the complete movement of their teeth within the firvisit our officest 60 days.
So what are you waiting for? Get the smile you’ve always wanted, and deserved. It’s your time to shine with a new Insignia smile! Simply complete the quick contact form on the right to schedule your free consultation with Patel & Carden Beaches Orthodontics. You can also learn more from the the manufacturer by visiting Insignia’s website.

Friday, January 4, 2013

TEETH WHITENING BEIRUT

A Whitening Experience Tailored to Your Needs

Over 10 million patients have had their smiles brightened by a Zoom treatment. We understand that patients have different needs when it comes to whitening—that’s why we’ve designed three different Zoom products.

In-office Whitening

The quickest, easiest way to effectively whiten your teeth is in-office treatment with Philips Zoom WhiteSpeed. Zoom WhiteSpeed is the only in-office system that has variable intensity setting so each treatment can be customized to maximize patient comfort. The system also includes desensitizers to help minimize sensitivity and protect your enamel. This dentist-supervised, in-office procedure is safe, effective and clinically proven to whiten up to eight shades—for a brighter, whiter smile in just one office visit.

Whitening at Home

Philips Zoom DayWhite and NiteWhite offer superior at-home whitening for a visibly whiter smile in one day and your whitest healthiest smile in seven to fourteen days. They are the only at-home whitening products to contain amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP), which is clinically proven to reduce sensitivity, protect enamel and help improve the luster and smoothness of the teeth.
Zoom at-home whitening products are completely customizable. Your dentist creates a custom tray made just for you and can tailor the formula concentration and wear times to your sensitivity and lifestyle.

Before and After

See the dramatic results Zoom delivers.

Treatment: Zoom At-Home

Treatment: Zoom At-Home

Treatment: Zoom At-Home

Treatment: Zoom In-Office

Treatment: Zoom In-Office

‹

Managing Sensitivity

Everyone responds differently to whitening, and sensitivity is sometimes a side effect of whitening treatments. Ask your dental professional about using a sensitivity toothpaste like Fluoridex before and after your treatments. You can also use a mild desensitizer like Relief ACP in conjunction with your treatments to further minimize sensitivity.

Whitening Maintenance

To ensure your smile stays bright and white between treatments, try the Zoom Whitening Pen. With just two applications per day, this proprietary formula can help you maintain your white smile.
For continued stain removal and your healthiest teeth and gums, look for a power toothbrush like Sonicare DiamondClean or HealthyWhite. They’re proven to whiten teeth and remove plaque better than manual brushes.

Dr.george bardawil -ORTHODONTIST www.drgeorgebardawil.com, info@drgeorgebardawil.com, Invisalign premier provider, speciality clinics center, st maamari,12th floor hamra,beirut lebanon Hamra clinic 961-1-747644 Fanar clinic 961-1-873718 mobile 961-3-542724

Friday, December 21, 2012

Merry Christmas !

May each and every one of you have a very Merry Christmas and all the best in the New Year.

Saturday, December 15, 2012

Why Insignia® will have you smiling even before your braces come off!

You’re getting braces. And while you’re excited about having that great smile, you may be nervous about wearing the wires and brackets. Well, there is a new orthodontic system that makes straightening your teeth with braces a lot faster and easier compared to conventional orthodontic treatment. It’s called Insignia and it’s changing the way people feel about their braces.

Shorter Treatment Times

You’ve probably heard from friends or family members that wearing braces is a long-term commitment, taking two years on average. While that may be true of traditional orthodontic treatments, it’s not true for Insignia. Through the use of Insignia’s sophisticated 3-D imaging, treatment planning, and customized braces with customized precision archwires, your orthodontist can reduce treatment time compared to that of conventional braces.

Fewer Office Visits

In addition to shortening treatment times, the greater efficiency of the Insignia system also helps reduce the number of wire changes and adjustments you’ll need, and that means fewer trips to the orthodontist. The Insignia system’s 3-D software lets your orthodontist analyze how to effectively and efficiently align your teeth. Through this software, personalized archwires are designed to move your teeth into proper alignment smoothly and directly, reducing the number of maintenance visits.
To learn more, visit www.ormco.com.

Saturday, December 8, 2012

Shorten Your Time in Braces and Invisalign with AcceleDent

Dr. Bardawil is excited to announce our practice now offers the AcceleDent System! AcceleDent, the first and only orthodontic micropulse device of its kind, has the ability to help move our patients’ teeth 38%-50% faster than usual.
Orthopedic doctors have been using micropulse technology for years, but it just recently became available for orthodontic care. The AcceleDent System consists of a light, comfortable, hands-free appliance that patients use for 20 minutes per day. Its gentle microvibrations help stimulate bone movement.
Ask Dr. Bardawil if acceledent might be right for you!
For more information, check out www.acceledent.com.

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

RETAINERS AND ORTHODONTICS.

Braces are an investment in your smile. When your teeth reach a desired straightness, you’ll have a beautiful smile, but it’s important to keep it that way! You can accomplish this with a retainer.

A retainer is a small, custom-fit device that reinforces the new position of your teeth after your braces are removed. But for many patients, especially the youngest ones, wearing a retainer may seem like an annoyance. So exactly how long after your braces come off should you wear your retainer?

Graduation of Wear Time

When we remove your braces, we will evaluate the condition of the bone structure surrounding your teeth and determine how well it is adjusting to the new position of your teeth. For the first few months, we may require you to wear your retainer both day and night, except during meal times and for brushing and flossing.

As the bone and gum tissues adjust to your new smile, we may determine that you need to wear your retainer only at night. After about one year of wearing the retainer every night, you may be able to take a couple of nights off each week.
However, we do not recommend ever stopping permanently. To best secure the position of the teeth, especially through future extractions and oral health changes, wearing your retainer a few nights a week will be necessary for many years.

Considerations

If you are concerned about your appearance when you wear a retainer, there are many that can be worn discreetly. You could choose a clear plastic one that is less obvious during the months immediately following removal of your braces. When you change to night wear only, clear wire retainers are available for minimal visibility as well.

Remember, wearing your retainer is an investment in your smile. If you fail to wear it consistently, the tissues that support your teeth will be unsupported, and you may begin to experience noticeable shifting. You’ve worked hard to get that beautiful smile — your retainer will let you keep it!

Dr.george bardawil -ORTHODONTIST www.drgeorgebardawil.com, info@drgeorgebardawil.com, Invisalign premier provider, speciality clinics center, st maamari,12th floor hamra,beirut lebanon Hamra clinic 961-1-747644 Fanar clinic 961-1-873718 mobile 961-3-542724

Thursday, November 15, 2012

Permanent or Removable Retainers: Which is Right for You?

When the time to remove your braces finally arrives, it is very exciting. Unfortunately, it can be somewhat confusing, too, because you are faced with choosing between two kinds of retainers. Should you go with permanent, removable, or a combination of the two? It is always wise to follow your orthodontist’s recommendations, but knowing more about the two types of retainer beforehand can be helpful.
Removable Retainers
Removable retainers offer the advantage of easy use: you will generally put a removable retainer in at night and take it out in the morning. Regardless of your retainer schedule, you’ll be able to enjoy some time with no retainer. However, a removable retainer can easily be forgotten at times, and this means you won’t be taking full advantage of teeth retention.
Another potential advantage of a removable retainer is that you can take it out and brush and floss your teeth with ease, which is more of a challenge with a permanent retainer. Although removable retainers can be very effective, they don’t tend to be as effective as permanent retainers, especially if they are not used as directed.
Permanent Retainers
Permanent retainers are the clear choice for patients who want to “get it and forget it.” Once your permanent retainer is placed in your mouth, you won’t need to worry about daily retainer schedules, since it is permanently affixed to your teeth.
Because teeth begin to shift naturally as we age, a permanent retainer typically offers better long-term results for teeth straightening than a removable one. You can’t forget to put it in — it’s already there! Temporary retainers get lost or are forgotten on trips, and often fail to get used as often as they should be.
One drawback to permanent retainers is flossing. Some patients find it more difficult to floss with a permanent retainer, but we can show you effective ways to floss fairly quickly with your permanent retainer.
Some orthodontists may recommend a combination of the two; for example, a removable retainer for the top teeth and a permanent one for the lower ones because the lower teeth are smaller and tend to shift more.
Ultimately, the most important thing to remember is that wearing your retainer as directed is extremely important. As long as you follow our orthodontist’s advice, you will get the best results from your retainer, regardless of its type.

Saturday, October 27, 2012

What Makes the Damon System of Braces Different?

Until recently, the only option for people who need braces was the traditional type in which a wire threads through a bracket that attaches to each tooth. Both the wires and the brackets extend across the breadth of the mouth. Pressure from the wires moves the teeth into the proper position.
For most patients, traditional braces are far from ideal. They are often very uncomfortable for the patient because the ties that connect wires to the teeth prevent them from moving. Ties are used to create heavy force, but the force cuts off the blood supply between the root of the tooth and the bone surrounding it. Teeth can’t move until the blood flow is restored.
The Damon System aims to guide teeth gently and continuously, and reduce the use of force. Patients have reported that the entire experience of wearing braces is a lot more comfortable.
How the Damon System Works
Unlike traditional treatment with braces, the Damon System doesn’t require the removal of teeth or the use of palatal expanders. The system uses unique self-ligating braces, in which a specialized clip with a “door” replaces elastics or other ties. The “door” guides the archwire, and allows the teeth to move gently into the proper position. Because of the increased flexibility of the self-ligating brace, it exerts less pressure on individual teeth, and this means you won’t have to get adjustments as frequently.
Another advantage is the fact that the gentler, low-friction force means you won’t experience the long-term discomfort from intense pressure on your teeth, or the tight wires that are so common with traditional braces. Because there are no ties, Damon braces are also much easier to clean.
Three Components of Damon System
There are three components of the Damon System that create faster results, require fewer appointments, and cause less discomfort for patients.
1. Because the Damon System doesn’t use metal or plastic ties, there is no need to tighten the wire on the braces.
2. Lightweight shape-memory wires allow teeth the freedom to move faster, without the need for as many adjustments as occur with traditional braces.
3. The Damon System realigns teeth and enhances facial appearance without extracting teeth or using rapid palatal expanders. The slide mechanism of Damon braces facilitates faster, more comfortable repositioning of your teeth.
Damon System technology can offer you the option of braces that require fewer adjustments, with less pressure on the teeth and the entire mouth. A discussion with Dr.Bardawil will help you determine whether the Damon System is the best option for you or your child.

Thursday, October 18, 2012

Another Happy Patient at our clinic.

Before treatment

After treatment

DR.GEORGE BARDAWIL, deliver the highest quality orthodontic care in a personalized environment. We make orthodontic treatment fun and enjoyable. Thanks for sharing your photos, KoKO! It was a pleasure to have you as a patient at our clinic.

Sunday, October 7, 2012

The advantage of Invisalign® at Clinic Dr.George Bardawil

Part of what makes Invisalign “work” is that it’s customizable for just about anybody. To find out if you are the right candidate for Invisalign treatment, the first thing our team at Our Invisalign Clinic do is to take an impression of your teeth as they are now and digitize it. Using special software, we look at the current positioning of your teeth and compare it to the way your teeth should look.
Next we use special software to map out the exact path your teeth will take from the beginning of your treatment to the end. Based on the results, a set of custom aligners are created just for your teeth. Throughout the course of treatment, you will be required to wear these clear, removable aligners one at a time; each one moving your teeth closer and closer to their final, perfectly aligned position. And since the aligners are virtually invisible, nobody around you will even know you are wearing braces!Dr.Bardawil is an Expert Invisalign provider in Beirut,Lebanon

Saturday, September 29, 2012

invisalign video

Invisalign video showing tooth movement-before and after treated

Dr.George Bardawil

Taking care of your smile is nothing new! People have been brushing their teeth for thousands of years. In fact, the first “toothbrush” was created around 3000BC! Ancient civilizations used a thin twig with a frayed edge to rub against their teeth for cleaning.

The first toothbrush with bristles – similar to today’s toothbrushes – was invented in 1498 in China. Brushes were made out of bone or bamboo with bristles made from the hairs on the back of a hog’s neck.

It wasn’t until 1938 that the first nylon bristle toothbrush was introduced and people quickly became aware of practicing good oral hygiene.

Here are some other interesting facts about your toothbrush (and toothpaste):
• Most people are said to use blue toothbrushes over any other color
• The first toothpaste was used in 500 BC in China and India
• On average, children smile about 400 times per day
• Your toothbrush should be replaced every two months
• The first known toothpaste was used in 1780, Crest was introduced in 1955 and Colgate in 1873

Dr.george bardawil -ORTHODONTIST www.drgeorgebardawil.com, info@drgeorgebardawil.com, Invisalign premier provider, speciality clinics center, st maamari,12th floor hamra,beirut lebanon Hamra clinic 961-1-747644 Fanar clinic 961-1-873718 mobile 961-3-542724www.drgeorgebardawil.com

Sunday, September 23, 2012

You’re Never Too Old to Treat Yourself to a New Smile!

Did you know one in every five orthodontic patients is an adult? We’re living longer and technology is improving, making orthodontic treatment an appealing and safe option for patients of all ages. As the trend toward treatment later in life grows, we’re seeing braces on parents as well as children – and even adult celebrities such as Tom Cruise, Gwen Stefani and Nicholas Cage have shown off their braces. It’s never too late to look and feel your best!
Can Braces Work for Adults?
People of all ages can benefit from orthodontic treatment. The physical process for moving teeth is the same, young or old, which means it’s never too late to address issues such as an overbite or underbite, crooked or crowded teeth, or jaw disorders.
How Do I Get Started?
If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, we’ll make a consultation appointment with you. During this meeting we will perform a general assessment of your oral health, discuss options for treatment, and answer any questions you may have. We will also discuss matters of cost and insurance. The next step is an orthodontic records appointment in which we take x-rays, photos, and an impression of your teeth. This information drives your unique treatment plan.
What Are the Benefits?
Straightening your teeth can improve your smile, your self-esteem, and your dental health. Technologically advanced new treatments make it easier to identify the option that best fits your lifestyle. Modern techniques and materials have made braces and aligners more effective, comfortable and unobtrusive than ever.
If you think you might benefit from orthodontic treatment, give our team a call so we may set up a consultation to determine what type of treatment best meets your needs!

Friday, September 21, 2012

When Are Two Phases of Treatment Necessary?

Usually patients in orthodontic treatment already have their permanent teeth – they are pre-teens, teens and adults. But in some cases we have to start treatment earlier, even before the patient’s permanent teeth come in. We call this “two-phase treatment.”

When we have patients with clear developmental problems at an early age, it’s best to start work when they are young, before the problems get bigger and more difficult to treat.

Examples include:
• An upper or lower jaw that is not growing correctly
• A mouth growing in a way that doesn’t leave enough room for all the permanent teeth to come in
• A severe malocclusion, or bad bite, which means the jaw doesn’t fit together correctly

In these cases we will start early and do one round of treatment – phase one – while the patient still has their baby teeth. Phase one usually does not involve braces, but can include a different type of appliance that helps the jaw grow into place properly. We’ll follow up with phase two usually a few years later, when permanent teeth are in place. Generally phase two involves braces.

In order to catch early problems, we recommend that children have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven (and so does the American Association of Orthodontists). However, if your dentist or pediatrician sees any sign that early treatment might be necessary, he or she may recommend your child visit our office even sooner.

Friday, August 31, 2012

What’s a palatal expander and why would I need one?

A palatal expander “expands” (or widens) your upper jaw by putting gentle pressure on your upper molars and is used to make the bottom and upper teeth fit together better. It also makes more room for teeth and helps to promote a broader, more aesthetic smile.

Palatal expansion is usually not painful, but you may feel some minor discomfort. It’ll take a little time for you to get used to your appliance, so you may experience difficulty speaking and swallowing for the first day or two.

Adjusting your appliance as directed will ensure you keep on schedule with the rest of your orthodontic treatment plan. It takes about a few weeks to achieve the desired amount of expansion, after which you’ll keep wearing your expander for about six months, giving time for the new bone to form and stabilize. Our Clinic will give you detailed instructions about how to adjust your appliance and can answer any questions you may have about your palatal expander.