Fort Myers Dental Expanders
Support your child’s dental growth with expanders
Creating space for a healthier smile
Expanders are custom-made to fit each individual and can be used early to correct a crossbite and/or encourage jaw growth to accommodate more teeth.
At smiLee, we understand the importance of early intervention in pediatric dental care. Dental expanders play a crucial role in guiding the growth of your child’s jaw and ensuring a proper alignment of their teeth. We offer personalized Fort Myers dental expanders consultations to determine if this treatment is the right solution for your child’s orthodontic needs.
Dental expanders at smiLee Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
During your child’s appointment, they will receive a thorough and gentle evaluation to assess their candidacy for dental expanders. Our process for fitting dental expanders starts with an in-depth consultation, where we gather complete records including photographs, x-rays, and digital scans.
Dr. Jenny, our board-certified orthodontist, will oversee the entire process, ensuring that each step is carried out with precision and care. We also work closely with you to navigate insurance options and find the best financial solution for your family’s orthodontic care.
How Expanders Work
- Jaw Expansion: Expanders gradually widen the upper jaw, creating more space for teeth and improving alignment.
- Customized Fit: Each expander is custom-made to fit your child’s mouth, ensuring optimal comfort and effectiveness.
- Gradual Adjustment: The expander is adjusted over time, typically with a small key, to gently increase the width of the jaw.
- Promotes Proper Growth: By guiding the growth of the jaw, expanders help prevent overcrowding and support a balanced bite.
Benefits of dental expanders for kids
- Early Intervention: Corrects jaw alignment issues before they become more complex, preventing future dental problems.
- Promotes Healthy Growth: Encourages proper jaw development, allowing for a well-aligned smile as your child grows.
- Customized Care: Each expander is tailored to your child’s unique dental structure for optimal results.
- Comfortable Treatment: Our practice is designed with children in mind, offering a warm, friendly atmosphere that puts young patients at ease.
Dental Expanders FAQ
When is the best time for my child to get a dental expander?
Dental expanders are most effective when used in children who are still growing, typically between the ages of 7 and 14. Our team will evaluate your child’s specific needs to determine the right timing.
How long will my child need to wear an expander?
The duration of treatment with a dental expander varies, but most children wear their expanders for several months to achieve the desired results. We will discuss the expected timeline during your child’s consultation.
Is the process of getting an expander painful?
The fitting of a dental expander is generally comfortable, though your child may feel some pressure as their jaw adjusts. Our Fort Myers dental expanders team will provide guidance on managing any discomfort and ensure your child feels supported throughout the process.
What should I expect after my child gets an expander?
Your child may need some time to adjust to the expander. We will provide detailed care instructions and schedule regular check-ups to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments.
Let us give your child the smile they deserve
We are currently accepting new patients and very excited to work with you and your child.
Our Fort Myers Pediatric & Orthodontic Office
Hours:
Monday: 8:00am-5:00pm
Tuesday: 8:00am-5:00pm
Wednesday: 8:00am-5:00pm
Thursday: 8:00am-5:00pm
Friday: 8:00am-5:00pm*
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
*We answer phone calls on Fridays from 8:00am-5:00pm and are open for appointments on some Fridays. Contact us for full Friday availability!
