Expanders have played a crucial role in orthodontics for over a century. Initially developed in collaboration with early 19th-century ENT specialists, expanders were designed to help patients breathe more easily. A prominent New York ENT once passionately advocated for palatal expansion at a national meeting, highlighting how his chronic mouth-breathing patients began breathing through their noses for the first time. This improvement in nasal breathing, which alleviated chronic nasal congestion, is vital for overall health.

The orthodontic community briefly moved away from palatal expansion but saw a resurgence in the 1950s. An Ohio orthodontist demonstrated numerous successful cases where palatal expansion eliminated the need for permanent tooth extractions, a radical departure from the prevailing practice of the time.

Today, we recognize two significant benefits of palatal expanders: enhanced nasal breathing and the avoidance of tooth extractions. But the advantages don’t stop there. In the 80s and 90s, a researcher at Stanford Medical School discovered a connection between palatal expansion and the reduction of sleep apnea. Narrow palates often cause sleep disruptions due to poor tongue posture and restricted airways.

Adequate, deep sleep is critical for children. Poor sleep can lead to crankiness, chronic fatigue, and developmental delays. Cognitive development, or brain growth, occurs during sleep, making it essential for children to get quality rest to reach their full potential. Dr. Christian Guillaminault, a pioneer in this field, published over 700 scientific articles linking palatal expansion to sleep apnea prevention in children. As adults, weight gain can increase the risk of sleep apnea, with CPAP machines becoming a standard treatment.

The benefits of palatal expansion in children are clear: better sleep, fewer tooth extractions, and improved breathing. For orthodontists, expanders can achieve remarkable results, creating good bites and beautiful smiles that last a lifetime. Although no scientific evidence directly links all benefits, it stands to reason that proper nasal breathing, functional bites, wide palates, and weight management can help prevent snoring and sleep apnea as we age.

So, why choose expanders? They open airways, reduce the need for dental extractions, improve sleep for both children and adults, and enhance breathing. At Wise-Lee Orthodontics, we view orthodontics as an integral part of healthcare. If your child shows any signs of airway obstruction, especially during sleep, consult with an airway-friendly orthodontist who can intervene at the right time—while your child is still growing. Introducing your child to the orthodontist at age 5 is ideal. If structural issues are emerging, an orthodontic specialist can guide your child’s facial growth and development effectively, possibly with an expander.

Visit Wise-Lee Orthodontics in Frisco, TX, to learn more about how expanders can benefit your child’s health and smile.