PALATAL Expanders

What is a palatal expander?

Palatal Expander: A Gentle Solution for Orthodontic Alignment

A palatal expander is an orthodontic appliance designed to gently widen the upper jaw, creating more space in the mouth. This device is commonly used for children and adolescents whose jaws are still developing, making it easier to address issues such as crowded teeth, crossbites, and breathing difficulties. The expander works by applying gentle pressure to the palate over time, gradually expanding the jaw to achieve proper alignment and improved oral health.

Expanding Horizons: Building Beautiful Smiles from the Foundation

Unlock the potential of a confident smile with Griffin Orthodontics' Palatal Expanders. Our expert team is dedicated to providing high-quality orthodontic care in a friendly and inviting atmosphere. Palatal expanders are a transformative solution for widening the upper jaw, improving dental alignment, and enhancing overall oral health. Whether you're a concerned parent or an adult considering orthodontic treatment, our palatal expanders can help you achieve the smile you've always wanted.

Benefits of Palatal Expanders (Expander Braces)

  • Improve airflow and reduce sleep-related issues like snoring or apnea.
  • Prevents teeth from becoming stuck in the jaw due to overcrowding.
  • Resolves misalignment between the upper and lower jaws for proper bite function.
  • Creates room for permanent teeth to erupt naturally without becoming impacted.

Who is a Candidate for a Palatal Expander?

Palatal expanders are most effective for children aged 8-14 when their bones are still growing. Early intervention can prevent more severe orthodontic problems later in life, such as asymmetric jaw development or impacted teeth requiring surgery.

 

Why Choose a Palatal Expander Over Braces or Aligners?

Feature Palatal Expander Braces/Aligners
Mechanism of Action Gradually widens the upper jaw to create space Aligns individual teeth within the existing jaw structure
Treatment Goals Corrects crowding, crossbites, and improves airway Straightens teeth and corrects bite misalignments
Age Suitability Best for children and adolescents with growing jaws Suitable for teens and adults
Customization Tailored to expand the palate based on dental anatomy Custom brackets or aligners for tooth alignment
Duration Typically 3-6 months 12-24 months
Before & After

Real Patients Cases

Explore our real patients cases and view before and after transformations.
Patient BM - Teen aligners. 12 months; Anterior Open bite and spacing
Before
After
Contact Us

Interested in a Free Consultation?

At Griffin Orthodontics in Milwaukee, we specialize in using advanced orthodontic solutions like palatal expanders to ensure your child’s oral health is optimized early on. Our team provides personalized care tailored to your child’s needs, ensuring comfort and effective results.

Schedule Today

Orthodontic treatment length depends on each patient’s case, but most people at Griffin Orthodontics complete treatment in about 12 to 24 months. Minor adjustments or early-phase treatments can take less than a year, while more complex cases (for example, significant bite corrections) might take up to about 2 years. Whether you choose LightForce braces or Spark Clear Aligners, our West Allis orthodontist will give you an estimated timeframe after evaluating your smile. With modern techniques and regular check-ups, we make sure your treatment stays on schedule as much as possible. Remember, following your orthodontist’s instructions (like wearing aligners as directed or keeping appointments) also helps finish your treatment on time.

Yes. Griffin Orthodontics treats patients of all ages – children, teens, and adults – at our West Allis and Oak Creek offices. For children, we offer early evaluations (usually around age 7) and treatments like palatal expanders or early-phase braces to guide jaw growth and make future corrections easier. Teens can get traditional braces (with options like clear or LightForce braces) or clear aligners like Spark for a nearly invisible option during high school years. Adults are also welcome – it’s never too late to improve your smile, and we provide discreet treatment choices such as ceramic braces or Spark Clear Aligners to fit adults’ lifestyles. Our team personalizes treatment plans for each age group to ensure the best results and a comfortable experience.

Griffin Orthodontics - We offer services to children, teens and even adults
Griffin Orthodontics – We offer services to children, teens and even adults

Griffin Orthodontics in West Allis offers a full range of orthodontic treatments for patients of all ages. These include LightForce 3D-printed bracket braces (advanced traditional braces tailored to your teeth), Spark Clear Aligners (nearly invisible trays to straighten teeth), and palatal expanders for growing children who need jaw expansion. Whether you’re seeking treatment for a child, teen, or adult, this West Allis, WI orthodontist provides modern solutions to help everyone achieve a healthy, aligned smile.

Orthodontic treatment costs can vary based on the length and complexity of care. For most cases requiring 12 to 36 months of treatment, the average cost ranges from $3,800 to $6,500. If your child needs early interceptive treatment, which typically lasts 8 to 15 months, costs may be up to $3,600. Every smile is unique, so we’re here to provide personalized care that fits your family’s needs and budget.

Schedule your free consultation today!

Yes! Spark clear aligners can be a great option for young athletes since there are no brackets or wires to worry about. The aligners can be removed during games or practices if needed, making it easier to wear a standard sports mouthguard. Discuss this option with your orthodontist to see if Spark clear aligners is suitable for your child. If your interested in the difference between Spark Clear Aligners and Invisalign look here!

FAQ's

Resources & Support

Explore our Frequently Asked Questions to find clear answers and valuable insights about orthodontic treatments, procedures, and care to help you make informed decisions for your smile.
Contact Us

Contact Us

Name
Name
Select Location
Education & Resources

Straight Talk: Navigating Your Orthodontic Journey

From expert advice on choosing the right braces to tips on maintaining your oral health during treatment, our articles aim to empower you on your journey to a beautiful, confident smile.

View All Resource & Eduction Articles »

Other Services Offered

LightForce Brackets Affordable Braces

LightForce Braces

Traditional Personalized Braces for All Ages Introduction to LightForce Brackets LightForce braces represent the cutting edge of orthodontic technology. Unlike traditional braces, which use generic brackets and wires, LightForce offers a fully customized treatment tailored to each patient’s unique dental anatomy. By combining advanced 3D printing technology with digital treatment planning, LightForce provides a more […]

Read More
Clear Aligners in Milwaukee by Spark Clear Aligners

Spark Clear Aligners

Straighten Your Smile with Spark Clear Aligners in Milwaukee Looking for a clear, comfortable, and nearly invisible alternative to braces? At Griffin Orthodontics, we offer Spark Clear Aligners—the next generation of clear aligner technology designed for precision, comfort, and results. Whether you’re a busy professional, a college student, or a parent on the go, Spark […]

Read More
Early Orthodontics

Early Orthodontics

Guiding Healthy Smiles, Building Confidence Early orthodontic care is about more than just straightening teeth — it’s about helping your child grow into a healthy, confident smile that lasts a lifetime. At Griffin Orthodontics, we provide personalized care for kids and teens in Milwaukee, West Allis, and Oak Creek. Whether your child needs braces, clear […]

Read More
Professional adult patient wearing clear aligners at Griffin Orthodontics in Milwaukee

Adult Orthodontics

Confident Smiles at Every Age: Advanced Adult Orthodontics in Milwaukee Are you ready to achieve the straight, healthy smile you’ve always wanted? Discover the power of advanced orthodontic treatments at Griffin Orthodontics in Milwaukee. Since 2003 Dr. David J. Griffin, and  20+ years of experience, Dr. Griffin offers cutting-edge solutions for patients of all ages. […]

Read More

Adult Orthodontics

Confident Smiles at Every Age: Advanced Adult Orthodontics in Milwaukee Are you ready to achieve the straight, healthy smile you’ve always wanted? Discover the power of advanced orthodontic treatments at Griffin Orthodontics in Milwaukee. Since 2003 Dr. David J. Griffin, and  20+ years of experience, Dr. Griffin offers cutting-edge solutions for patients of all ages. […]

Read more »

Early Orthodontics

Guiding Healthy Smiles, Building Confidence Early orthodontic care is about more than just straightening teeth — it’s about helping your child grow into a healthy, confident smile that lasts a lifetime. At Griffin Orthodontics, we provide personalized care for kids and teens in Milwaukee, West Allis, and Oak Creek. Whether your child needs braces, clear […]

Read more »

Spark Clear Aligners

Straighten Your Smile with Spark Clear Aligners in Milwaukee Looking for a clear, comfortable, and nearly invisible alternative to braces? At Griffin Orthodontics, we offer Spark Clear Aligners—the next generation of clear aligner technology designed for precision, comfort, and results. Whether you’re a busy professional, a college student, or a parent on the go, Spark […]

Read more »

PALATAL Expanders

What is a palatal expander? Palatal Expander: A Gentle Solution for Orthodontic Alignment A palatal expander is an orthodontic appliance designed to gently widen the upper jaw, creating more space in the mouth. This device is commonly used for children and adolescents whose jaws are still developing, making it easier to address issues such as […]

Read more »

LightForce Braces

Traditional Personalized Braces for All Ages Introduction to LightForce Brackets LightForce braces represent the cutting edge of orthodontic technology. Unlike traditional braces, which use generic brackets and wires, LightForce offers a fully customized treatment tailored to each patient’s unique dental anatomy. By combining advanced 3D printing technology with digital treatment planning, LightForce provides a more […]

Read more »

Our Locations

Come by one of our locations and meet our friendly team! We’re ready to help you achieve the smile of your dreams! We look forward to meeting you soon!

To top