Expansion Appliances

Expansion appliances are used to gently and gradually widen the upper or lower jaw, creating more room for teeth, improving bite alignment, and supporting healthy airway development. They are often considered when a narrow palate, crowded teeth, or a restricted airway pathway is identified, and they can be part of a broader growth and development plan for children as well as certain adult cases.

Why Jaw Width Matters

A jaw that is too narrow can crowd developing teeth, contribute to an improper bite, and limit the space available for the tongue and airway. Addressing this early or appropriately can support both dental alignment and overall function.

Types of Expansion Appliances

Skeletal Expanders — appliances designed to widen the jaw structure itself, often used during periods of active growth.
Orthopedic Growth and Remodeling Appliances — devices that guide jaw and facial development over time to support healthy structure and function.
Functional Appliances — appliances that work with jaw movement and muscle function to encourage proper growth patterns.

How Treatment Is Planned

Dr. Jeremy Montrose, D.M.D., evaluates jaw, joint, and airway structure using CBCT (Cone Beam CT) imaging to help determine whether expansion is appropriate and how it fits into a patient's broader orthodontic or airway-focused treatment plan. His clinical focus includes skeletal expansion and orthopedic growth and remodeling appliances for patients across a range of ages.

This content is for general information only and isn't dental or medical advice. Talk with a qualified provider about your own situation. If you have a medical emergency, call 911.