Expanders may be a good option for your child if they are dealing with certain types of speech issues. They might have a lisp or their teeth may be crowded, making it challenging to make certain sounds. Or perhaps your child’s jaw is growing faster than her palate, and this is causing nasal resonance issues. In any of these cases, expanders may be an excellent option to help improve your child’s speech.
Children with a lisp or other speech impediment often benefit from a palate expander. These tools can help correct any issues with pronunciation and can even cure bad habits such as saying “s” inappropriately. A dentist offering expanders in Leander can decide if your child needs expanders.
What Are They?
Palate expanders are devices placed on the roof of your child’s mouth. They work to slowly widen the palate, which can help correct many speech issues. The devices come in a few different styles, but they all do the same thing- slowly widen the palate.
How Do They Work?
The expanders work by gradually pushing against the palate. This causes the muscles and bones in the area to slowly stretch and widen. Over time, this can help your child’s speech sound more natural. The devices are usually worn for a few months and then removed so that the dentist can check on their progress.
What to Expect
Your child will need to see the dentist every few weeks or months while wearing the expander. This is so that the dentist can ensure that the device is working correctly and that your child’s palate is widening as expected.
Most children do not find expanders uncomfortable, but some may experience a bit of soreness in their mouth when new to wearing them.
What Are the Benefits?
They can help with speech issues related to the roof of your child’s mouth. The devices are relatively easy to use, especially when compared to other speech therapy methods. Your child will not be in pain when wearing them.
The expanders can be a great way to help your child overcome speech impediments. If you are concerned about your child’s speech, speak to your dentist about the possibility of using expanders.
How to Care for Them
You will need to do a few things to help keep your child’s palate expander clean. First, each time the expander comes out, clean it with lukewarm water and mild soap. Be sure not to scrub too hard or use anything abrasive.
Second, brush your child’s teeth twice daily using fluoride toothpaste. This will help keep the teeth and gums healthy, which is vital when wearing an expander. Avoid putting any food or drink in your child’s mouth while wearing the expander. This includes candy, gum, and even water.
Also, make sure to clean the expander regularly. You can do this by soaking it for a few minutes in a mixture of mouthwash and water.
In summary, expanders are orthodontic devices used to slowly widen the palate, which can help correct many speech issues. They work by gradually pushing against the palate. Usually, they do not cause any discomfort. They are easy to use and can help correct speech issues related to the roof of the mouth. Always clean the expanders with lukewarm water and mild soap, and remember to have your child brush their teeth after meals.
