Rapid Palatal Expander (RPE)
At Fellow Orthodontist, Dr. Lin takes all aspects of the smile and underlying bone structure into account when creating personalized treatment plans.
Through this holistic S.H.A.P.E. philosophy, we use specialized orthodontic appliances to guide healthy jaw development, preventing severe misalignments from developing, and in most cases, eliminating the need for invasive treatments, like jaw surgery.
For many young patients, that journey begins with the Rapid Palatal Expander (RPE).
Rapid Palatal Expander: What is it?
The most common type of palate expander, the Rapid Palatal Expander is a custom-made orthodontic appliance used to widen the upper jaw during childhood or adolescence, when the bones are still developing.
The device is anchored to the upper molars and includes a small plate that sits in the palate, with a small center screw that’s turned at home using a special key. Over time, these small turns gradually increase the width of the jaw.
A number of issues stem from a narrow palate — from crossbites to constricted air flow, sleep disorders (like sleep apnea), snoring, breathing through the mouth, receded/weak jaws, and an imbalance facial structure/appearance.
By expanding the palate at the right time, we can create the space needed for proper tooth and jaw alignment, and improve airflow for easier breathing and sleeping, promote long-term bite health, and create a healthy, harmonious facial appearance.
Who would need an RPE?
This technique is effective only while the mid-palatal suture is still soft and flexible, which is why RPE orthodontics is recommended for children and pre-teens, usually between ages 6 and 13.
(However, Dr. Lin also performs expansion treatment for adults, which you’ll read about further down the page!)
With children, the upper and lower jaws should ideally grow in harmony. But sometimes, a child’s upper jaw is too narrow to match the lower jaw, or too small to accommodate all incoming permanent teeth.
Dr. Lin may recommend a palatal expander to address:
- Moderate to severe crowding
- A posterior crossbite (upper teeth sit inside lower teeth in the back)
- Breathing issues related to a narrow nasal passage
- Impacted teeth due to lack of space
- Narrow smile or facial asymmetry
What to Expect with Palate Expansion
- Initial evaluation: When you and your child visit us for your initial consultation, Dr. Lin will perform a detailed clinical exam, taking a high-quality 3D x-ray and 3D rendering of their teeth and bite, to assess their growth and treatment needs.
- Custom fabrication: If a palate expander is the best treatment route, the device will be custom-made and fitted to your child’s upper molars. We’ll show you how to activate the device and how to care for it, and ensure that you feel comfortable.
- Activation phase: You’ll turn a small key once or twice a day for 1–3 weeks, following Dr. Lin’s exact instructions.
- Retention phase: Once the palate has reached the desired width, the expander stays in place for a few months to allow the new bone to stabilize.
- Next steps: Depending on your child’s needs, this phase may be followed by braces or Invisalign® to align the teeth.
Most children adapt to the palatal expander quickly. Some may feel minor palate expander side effects, like a tingling sensation or temporary pressure in the nose or upper jaw, but this usually fades after the first few turns. Throughout the process, we’ll be here to answer all of your questions, every step of the way.
Are there palatal expanders for adults?
For patients whose growth plates have already fused (typically older teens and adults), a different approach is needed.
In those cases, Dr. Lin may recommend a MARPE or MSE device — a more advanced appliance designed to expand the jaw with the help of TADs (temporary anchorage devices) which he personally places.
Dr. Lin collaborates with a highly-experienced ent/os surgeon, if we need to perform a special procedure called DOME. This procedure helps release the sutures, so we can effectively expand adults the same way we can expand children.
Not sure which option is right for you? Dr. Lin will walk you through every step with clarity, care, and clinical expertise.
Expert Orthodontics in Manhattan
Jaw development plays a major role in long-term oral health. At Fellow Orthodontist, Dr. Lin personally places all RPE appliances and customizes each plan based on your child’s growth and needs — never one-size-fits-all.
To determine whether a palate expander is right for your child, let’s start with a consultation and exam of their growth and development. Our comprehensive consultations are valued at $400 but only cost you $95!
We reserve a full hour for you, for Dr. Lin to perform:
- A detailed clinical examination to assess your individual conditions and needs
- High-quality 3D x-ray and 3D rendering of your teeth and bite
- A thorough discussion of your treatment options, tailored recommendations, and answers to all your questions by Dr. Lin
- Personalized treatment plan designed just for you
We’re confident that you’ll see the value in our care. Take the first step now, and book your consultation with our Manhattan, Union Square, orthodontic office.