A bonded palatal expander is an orthodontic appliance used to gently widen the upper jaw and create space for proper tooth
alignment. Small adjustments gradually expand the jaw over time, and the appliance remains in place for several months to
stabilize the results.
In the Beginning
For the first day or so, stick to soft foods like soup, mashed potatoes, yogurt, or pasta. Before long, you’ll be able to
eat tougher foods again. But you’ll need to protect your orthodontic appliances when you eat for as long as you’re
wearing braces. This page includes a list of foods and actions to avoid.
General Soreness
When you get your expander on you may feel general soreness in your mouth for the first few days. It is also normal
to feel some tightness in the beginning each time your expander is turned. If the tenderness is severe, take Advil
(Ibuprofen) or whatever you normally take for headaches or similar pain. After the first few days you should not feel
any more sensitivity associated with the expander or the turning process. If any part of the expander feels sharp to
your tongue, or if the tightness and sensitivity does not cease after the first 3-5 days, please call us.
Foods to avoid while your Expander is in your Mouth
Brushing and Rinsing
Loose Wire or Broken Bracket
Don’t be alarmed if a wire or bracket comes loose. This happens occasionally. If a wire protrudes and is irritating, use
a blunt instrument (the eraser end of a pencil) and carefully, gently push the irritating wire under the arch wire to get it
out of the way. If irritation to the lips or mouth continues, place wax or wet cotton on the wire to reduce the
annoyance. Call our office as soon as possible for an appoin