If you’re preparing to have palate expansion surgery, chances are you’ve done your research on the procedure and its benefits. You know that it can relieve snoring, sleep apnea, and other breathing disorders that may be caused by an overly narrow upper jaw. But chances are you haven’t found much information on how to get the key for your palate expander key before your surgery date, so you may be feeling a little lost at this point.
A Detailed Explanation Of Palate Expanders
If you’re getting ceramic braces, you may be wondering if you need a palate expander. This is a device that helps widen your smile, and it’s placed behind your teeth. You’ll need to get a key from your orthodontist in order to activate it. Here’s how the process works 1) You go to an orthodontist and ask for a palate expander.
2) The doctor will take an impression of your teeth (a mold of the shape of your mouth), which they use to create a custom-fit expander.
3) The doctor will also give you a key which is inserted into the back of the plastic part that covers the top half of your mouth (called an occlusal guard).
4) When you place this over your teeth, it triggers the expansion mechanism. 5) Once activated, people typically feel pressure at first but then experience instant relief as their mouths start stretching open naturally. 6) In a matter of weeks, many patients find that their pain has gone away and the result is more room for chewing and better jaw alignment. 7) Patients who have had metal braces before say that ceramic ones are much more comfortable than those because there’s no metal clanking together or sharp edges cutting your cheeks or tongue when you talk. 8) Orthodontists agree: ceramic braces are much more comfortable than metal ones, not just because they’re easier on the mouth tissue but because they cause less friction with other appliances like retainers or headgear later on.
Why Choose Plastic Over Metal
There are many reasons why people choose ceramic braces over metal braces. Some of these reasons include:
-They are less visible on your teeth than metal braces, making them a more cosmetic option.
-Ceramic braces are made of a strong, durable material that can withstand the wear and tear of everyday life.
-They are less likely to cause irritation to your gums and lips than metal braces.
-Ceramic braces before and after treatment can help you see the dramatic transformation that is possible with this type of orthodontic treatment.
-Ceramic braces are more comfortable to wear than metal braces.
-They require less time and effort to keep clean than metal braces.
Getting The Right Fit
Your orthodontist will take an impression of your teeth before they place the expander. This is so they can ensure that the device is custom-made for your mouth. The process of getting braces generally takes two visits. At the first visit, you’ll be given a consultation. During this time, your orthodontist will ask about your medical history and do a thorough examination of your mouth, teeth, and bite. They may also take X-rays, photos, and plaster models of your teeth.
All of this information will be used to develop a treatment plan just for you. The second visit is when you actually get your braces put on. You’ll have a follow up appointment in six weeks where we check how your teeth are moving around and make adjustments if necessary. It’s not uncommon for our patients to come back every three months to make sure everything’s progressing as planned. Once all the treatment is complete, we give you ceramic braces before and after pictures of what it looks like from start to finish!
Tips For Use With Braces
If you’re getting ceramic braces, congratulations! You’re on your way to having a beautiful, healthy smile. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your experience:
- Be sure to brush and floss regularly, especially after meals. This will help keep your teeth and gums clean and prevent staining.
- Avoid hard and sticky foods that can damage your braces or get caught in them.
- Rinse with mouthwash daily to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
- Wear your rubber bands as prescribed by your orthodontist.
- Check your braces regularly for loose wires or brackets and call your orthodontist if you have any problems.
Tips On Cleaning
Your expanders are made of two pieces: an upper piece and a lower piece. The expander key is used to tighten or loosen the space between these two pieces. To clean your expanders, brush them with a toothbrush and toothpaste twice a day, just like you would your regular teeth. You can also rinse them with water after meals. It’s important to keep your expanders clean because they can cause bad breath if they’re not.
Ceramic braces are less visible than metal braces, but they still require special care when cleaning. Be sure to brush your ceramic braces before and after every meal, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth. You should also floss carefully around your braces each day.
