To everyone here suffering, it will get better! I got mine about 2 weeks ago and I thought it was hell. Honestly, just accept that it kinda sucks but realise it only gets better with time! Some of my recommendations (approved by my orthodontist) are Jello, smoothies, ice cream floats, and rice with soup! Wishing all luck with your expansion :D
@@snoewyy i got one and i dont talk that differently some sounds are hard to say like for me “ch” because my tounge presses up against it but other than that i don’t have a lisp like people say you would get
I’ve had mine for almost 2 months now and it’s not that bad, the first 1-2 weeks I couldn’t eat and I hated it, also food ALWAYS got stuck up there and I panicked but now I can pretty much eat anything and my talking isn’t that bad, only a few vowels I can’t say like ‘eeh’ but other than that people don’t even notice it when I talk so it’s great! I also got a gap at the start but it closed itself.
i just got mine today and my top teeth are sore since i had gotten my top wires and it’s abit hard to swallow and talk kinda sucks but reading the comments is quite abit of comfort knowing it’ll get better soon
Hello, I want to say my experience at the moment with a pallet expander.When you get it in DO NOT SWALLOW, the glue doesn’t taste good, after they might twist it once at the ortho place then they send you off. There is honestly no pain when you turn the key it kinda feels like a headache in your nose and teeth. The worst part is eating, EVERYTHING gets stuck up there. That is my overall experience with it so far because I’ve had it for a day now. P.S you have a nasty lisp that goes away after some time
I started gagging at my ortho appointment when I got mine 😂😂😂 it was so embarrassing but I’ve always had a bad gag reflex so when I went to rinse my mouth I could taste the glue. It was awful 😂
Thank you Doc for detailed explanation 😊 My 12yr old son got his expanders yesterday, your video is helpful. You should make more videos on different topics and share your patient experience with us. Thank you have a nice day.
thanks for the great feedback! i made most of these videos during the covid shutdown when i had time... unfortunately i am pretty busy with my practices (and family!) that i don't much time to make more of these right now. Good luck with your son's treatment!
This was so helpful! I wasn’t able to go to my son’s appointment when his expanded was placed so all these instructions make me feel so much more comfortable with caring for it. Thank you!
Hey y’all I got my expander like 2-4 weeks ago and the first week my mouth was sore 😮 now o can eat literally everything including sticky candy (not gum). Just to let you know food will most likely always get stuck up there but it’s easy to remove it. The first 2 weeks I used a toothpick to get food out but now I don’t really need that. That’s just an lil experience for people who is going to get it soon.
I’ve had mine for over a year at this point and quite frankly it’s getting to the point that I would rather have awful teeth than leave it in. It has caused me to choke on food on one occasion and the wire is constantly digging into my tongue. This thing sucks so bad that I would classify it as a torture device rather than a dental appliance.
@@drdougortho I’m not precisely sure as to the reason they’ve been in this long but I’m guessing it’s related to a crossbow which he will be installing in order to correct my overbite.
I have to get one Wednesday!😤 I’m mad! Thank you for this thought. Edit: I got it yesterday the people who made it messed it up!!! Now I have to turn it from the back to the front! It’s horrible! I can’t eat because I can’t swallow! So I’m starving! And they turned it five times yesterday (yes I counted) and my mouth felt like it was going to explode!!!!!! They had to turn it a lot of times to make sure it would work. But it was so bad!
To everyone saying they can’t eat or they have a lisp etc, this will be temporary! I’m only on day 6 of having mine and my lisp is already gone! I can swallow fine too now but food gets stuck, that’s normal though. The first few days definitely suck but even though I’m only on day 6, I often forget it’s there. You got this and remember it will all give you a smile you’re happy with in the future.
My almost 9 year old got hers on Tuesday and we are at Day 3. 1st and 2nd day she had trouble talking. Her gums were hurting from irritation. Used the wax given in the kit to relieve her. Today it’s not her gums but the tongue is getting irritated by the expander. Her speech has improved with it in today. Trying to keep her busy and active. Going in next week to see if they can adjust any of the metals. She has a wiggly tooth next to the piece. Take care everyone.
@@bellarodriguez401 not to long ! Maybe like 10 min they have to mold it into your teeth. Not painful what so ever, trust me I was really nervous to ! But all you’re gonna feel is pressure no pain.
@@bellarodriguez401 I'm sorry I can't really tell you because I have the removable ones which take like a second to put in so im not sure since there are many different types of expanders
I just got mine and it’s actually not that bad, it is hard to talk and pronounce words it’s also hard to swallow but it doesn’t hurt at all. I haven’t tried eating with it yet since I’m scared that I’ll choke since I can’t even swallow water.
@@mishmishmishmish2184 Yes it did. Within a week I was able to chew and swallow without a problem, talking wasn’t difficult and I got used to it. Soon enough it felt like it wasn’t even there!
My turning tool looks like a teeny wrench and I was given a little rubber string to attach to it so when I turned my expander I could grab the wrench out in case I dropped it in my mouth. It also made turning so easy compared to the one in the video since there wasn’t a hole to stick into, it would just click in place and I’d turn it towards my throat
Hi im writing from Turkey. This is the best explaination i have come across. If we dont turn it properly do we have to see the dr each time. Or can we fix it ourselves.
Depends what you mean. I can't be sure, but you shouldn't have to see your dr every day to turn it, it should be done yourself unless you "lose" the hole/cant find it because it gets stuck.
so um when i got my expander two days ago i had the urge to bite down so i did and i think i might've pushed my bracket things closer to my gum so now my two back teeth are really sensitive when i eat. what do i do?
I'm in day 3 and food keeps getting stuck between the roof of my mouth and the expander top, what do I do? I've even tried drinking lots of water after each bite but it's still stuck. (Thank you so much for answering all of the comments(
The designs of expanders vary, and how close to the roof if your mouth will vary as well... some will be more prone to getting food stuck than others. You will get used to it and get better at getting it out. Make sure to brush ON the expander after meals and a waterpik is helpful to keep it clean as well.
When I got mine it was odd at first but after a week or so you get used to it… I never used any of the wax or any of the little extras… eventually it was all worthed when I got it out and eventually got the braces out
Do you have patients that got it on and just couldn’t do it so they got it off? Does every orthodontist have the option for removable ones for kids who can’t stop choking?
I've NEVER had a patient in my 18 year career, that didn't eventually get used to in in every way! Some take a day or 2, a few will take a week or so, but every kid has adapted and done great! Removable ones just don't give you true expansion of the palate, despite what some may say.
Hi I’ll be getting this in a few weeks. I’m autistic and struggle very much with sensory issues. Will this be especially hard for me and how can I make it easier??
We've treated many kids with sensory issues, and while the first week or so may be tough, you should get used to it! You just have to go through it. But talking as much as possible early on helps you to adjust faster. So drive your parents crazy and talk and sing a lot the first few days!
I dont 'know if you orthodontist gave you one, but we give our patients "proxy brushes" (looks like a tiny pipe-cleaner with a handle), to get out food that brushing/rinsing doesn't get... you can get them in the pharmacy/drug store!
May I ask how long this treatment gonna be? Is it 3-4 years? After expanding process, it has to be the phase II ( braces) or it can be an option? My boy is 10 years who is looking for the orthodontist. Please give advice!!!!
Most treatment is 18-24 months, but it obviously varies for every patient. The only way to know all the options for anyone is to be seen by the Orthodox will be treated by.
@@drdougortho thank you for the quick response. I have 2 orthodontist: one said it takes 18 months & will have braces in 2 years. One said it takes 3-4 years, no need braces after b/c it depends on how permanent teeth growth and the way they growth. Can you please advise how to choose the right orthodontist?
@@liennim637 unfortunately there is no way for me to tell which plan is appropriate unless I examine a patient. Talk to other people in your area who have been treated by different orthodontists, and ask your dentist if THEY or THEIR FAMILY needed treatment, where would they go?
I got top and bottom and oh boy just wow wow it hurts but you will get used to it but when you first get it try to eat like apple sauce or something soft and be prepared with pain killer and ibuprofen! Good luck 🍀
I’m 19, is there a chance for it to work at my age without needing screws? Also my blood sugar is a bit high, 5,6 with 139 000 blood platelets I think, is it fine if they are going to extract teeth out? + I have a wisdom teeth that needs a procedure to open the gum and extract it
Headaches are rare, if you're young it doesn't really hurt at all.. Eating will take a few days to get used to, but Everyone gets used to it! Don't worry!
Question, I've had my quad expander for about 2 months now and I wake up every day with an imprint from the expander causing my tongue to be in tremendous amount of pain, yesterday I woke up with a bloody tongue. Do you recommend anything I can wear through the night for my quad expander, for it to stop pressing against the expander through out the night? I've tried rpe tongue guards but they wouldn't stay on and they would rip. Just ordered some orthodots (wax) to try and put on the expander for overnight use.
This happens to people who push their tongue up against their palate. just keep your tongue clean so it won't get infected,and yes,the wax is a good idea!
dr which brand water pick do u recommend? also do the floss , water-pick , last brush teeth ? my daughters has 6 cavity’s ….. i wasn’t aware of her needing to use the special tooth paste at night , and not to rinse her mouth… i feel awful . so i appreciate all the tips .. my younger kid need a expander , so that will be 3 kids in braces
Ok the order is floss (or waterpik) then brush for 2 min. Then fluoride rinse for 60 seconds. I don't have a preference of waterpik. But the 2 best electric tooth brushes in my opinion are the oral B or sonicare
My 8 year old son got this two days ago Since day one only his tongue is hurting by expander Doctor doesn't gave any wax to us So should I put wax in mouth or it will stop hurting by itself As it is inside the mouth at roof of maxilla where he will going to continuously solow his saliva not on the gum And our doctor told us to turn the screw once every three days
Some kids develop the habit of pushing their tongue against the expander and get and imprint of the screw on their tongue. It can tale longer for these patients to get used to it/become more comfortable, but the do. The wax probably won't help in this case. Give it a week or so and he should be better. The once every 3 days I can't speak for. Not sure why so slow, but best to ask why not the standard one (or even 2x) per day.
Day 3 with the Palatal Expender I hate this! FOR me i cry everyday because i cant eat nothing, i only eat one meal and its soup everytime i tired to eat something else it will get stuck up there! I just want to get it off, but iam not sure how long iam going to keep i hope not a long time. If you have really bad teeth how long do you keep it on? Or even if you dont have bad teeth how long can you still keep it on? Please i want an answer! And my dentist said i have to turn it with the key for 14 days and then stop idk if after iam going to take it off or just stop turning it with the key?
After you stop turning, it usually stays in about 6 months, or else it goes right back to where you were before. You WILL get used to it though! Give it a week or so
I just got mine 3 days ago, and i got the very uncomfortable ones where they have those brackets on the sides closet to the cheek and i was wondering how i could stop it from making my cheek from bleeding. I got wax to stick on the brackets but sometimes it doesn't work and doesnt stay for that long. But my main question ; is there anyway to stop it from hurting my cheek while eating for the first 3 weeks
the wax will stay on BETTER if you can somehow dry the area of metal before putting it on. i know it shard, but usually a papertowel around your finger to dry it a little while pulling your cheek out, then stick the wax on. I know its annoying, but eventually you will get used to the tubes that stick out.
Just got it today, and i thought I did something wrong when I tried eating the school rice lol. Eating so far and drinking is so annoying, food everywhere lol.
this is kind of a big problem I basically was eating with my expander and braces and my inside of my mouth got stuck on my braces on my expander what do I do?!
What age is too early to put a expander on? My son will be 6 in 3 months and his orthodontist is recommending to get the expander now. I feel my son is no mature enough to deal with all this😔. Just brushing his teeth alone is a struggle
It varies based on the reason and the development of the teeth. 6 May be fine, BUT I usually don't see a reason to rush into it, as it can be just as effective at 7 or 8 w/o. BUT I don't know the specifics on your son's case
My daughter has had hers in for about 3 weeks. She is now getting swelling on the roof of her mouth. She says it only hurts when she eats. I’m guessing maybe she got something stuck in the roof of her mouth now there is no room to get in between the expander and the roof of her mouth. Anyone else have any problems like this?
Either go see your orthodontist so they can clean it out, or something like a waterpick will help clean that tough area out. You are right, most likely food stuck and irritating her palate
It’s also included I’m paying 5 grand for my braces and they charging my expander from there I don’t recall how much but they do include in there I think I get the expander off already this Friday been having it since the beginning of the year
@@kevintorres5209 so when you get yours taking off do you go right into braces from there? I go back to the dentist next month for him to decide if I can take it off
@@alwayshisgirlanderson8628 well I still haven’t gotten my expander out yet I just went in for. A wire change and elastic that you wear full time I got my braces in November and expander in January I was told I gotta keep this expander for a year
@@kevintorres5209 oh no I hope my dentist doesn’t say I have to keep this longer than a month, I really miss food. Thanks for responding. Everyone’s questions answers and feedback is definitely helpful
Well often you have to turn it for a month or longer... Then it's usually 6 months AFTER the turning is complete before it's removed. But ask your sister 8 when it will be removed.
Hey man question. The wires on one side of my expander are so far up that they are pushing into the roof of my mouth and actually like going into the roof of my mouth. Should I be concerned about this?
I ve my expander for 6 months, they would remove it my next visit which is in about a month. My tongue hurts when i try to eat some certain food. And i have a wound on my tongue. Is there a way to make the wound heal, while having the expander?
In cleft palate individual there is a little gap in the palate through which liquid moves to the nose sometimes, does using an expander increase the size of the gap.
It can. Cleft palate and/or cleft lip needs multiple treatments starting early in infancy and through sometimes teen years to have the best result. Usually best treated with a team including orthodontists, plastic surgeons, plastic surgeons, ENTs, etc
I just got expanders 2 days ago and I cannot bite into anything bc my molars feel like they are about to come out. What should I do?? My dentist says it’s normal but I can only drink and make my food liquid. Will this pain go away?
Yes, but there either needs to be a surgical procedure to assist it or some temporary anchor screws used. The palate of adults usually cannot be expanded as simply as a child.
i got mine almost 9 days ago and i hate it. i’m feeling nauseous every day after eating. going to school with that thing in your mouth it’s really hard. i can’t wait to get it off and eat whatever i want. it’s hard ik but it’s the only way to fix my smile so…
i wish i had that, now it like i cant even eat anymore. the jaw expander then looked actually good and you could chew/eat and stuff but now i got mine and they totally changed the style and now i cant eat
A little bit late here but I just got my expander. Is it normal to feel like you gonna throw up? When I say some letters or when I eat I feel like I wanna throw up
i want to rip mine out 😭 i can’t eat and it’s giving me a lisp
Same
sameee I just got mine and I cant eat
I got mine a little while ago and 1. It hurts on the side and 2. I cant say “shhhh” without it feeling weird 😅
@@azrealxoxo Same and its only my right side that hurts too
Lol me too I just got mine. My tongue is sore
To everyone here suffering, it will get better! I got mine about 2 weeks ago and I thought it was hell. Honestly, just accept that it kinda sucks but realise it only gets better with time! Some of my recommendations (approved by my orthodontist) are Jello, smoothies, ice cream floats, and rice with soup! Wishing all luck with your expansion :D
Did you talk differently
@@snoewyy i got one and i dont talk that differently some sounds are hard to say like for me “ch” because my tounge presses up against it but other than that i don’t have a lisp like people say you would get
I got mine and they fell out 2 times in a 2 week time frame and I just got them put back on! Please I need recipes for my expanders!!! :)
@@tanu_ki_duniya_ Just so you know mine fell out 4 times and now I have a good one
How do u swallow with food though it’s so hard for me
I’ve had mine for almost 2 months now and it’s not that bad, the first 1-2 weeks I couldn’t eat and I hated it, also food ALWAYS got stuck up there and I panicked but now I can pretty much eat anything and my talking isn’t that bad, only a few vowels I can’t say like ‘eeh’ but other than that people don’t even notice it when I talk so it’s great! I also got a gap at the start but it closed itself.
Just got mine but how does eating get better after a couple weeks cause I actually hate eating with it so much right now
I just got mine today and I can’t eat and it’s difficult to swallow 🤧
@@frankmitchell5281 u get used to it and u eat like normal, and if food gets stuck u will find it easy to get out with ur toung
Do you have to brush your teeth after eating a snack (as cookies/ a sandwich...) at school?
How.. i can't even swallow my saliva
i just got mine today and my top teeth are sore since i had gotten my top wires and it’s abit hard to swallow and talk kinda sucks but reading the comments is quite abit of comfort knowing it’ll get better soon
js got mine tdy to!
Hello, I want to say my experience at the moment with a pallet expander.When you get it in DO NOT SWALLOW, the glue doesn’t taste good, after they might twist it once at the ortho place then they send you off. There is honestly no pain when you turn the key it kinda feels like a headache in your nose and teeth. The worst part is eating, EVERYTHING gets stuck up there. That is my overall experience with it so far because I’ve had it for a day now. P.S you have a nasty lisp that goes away after some time
I started gagging at my ortho appointment when I got mine 😂😂😂 it was so embarrassing but I’ve always had a bad gag reflex so when I went to rinse my mouth I could taste the glue. It was awful 😂
How long does it take for you to talk normally after getting that expander?
Thank you Doc for detailed explanation 😊 My 12yr old son got his expanders yesterday, your video is helpful.
You should make more videos on different topics and share your patient experience with us.
Thank you have a nice day.
thanks for the great feedback! i made most of these videos during the covid shutdown when i had time... unfortunately i am pretty busy with my practices (and family!) that i don't much time to make more of these right now. Good luck with your son's treatment!
This was so helpful! I wasn’t able to go to my son’s appointment when his expanded was placed so all these instructions make me feel so much more comfortable with caring for it. Thank you!
So happy this helped!!!
This was super helpful. My 7 year old is starting his ortho journey, and gets his in a few weeks.
So glad you found it useful!:)
My son is getting this too. How did it go with your child (I'm just worried it will be really stressful for a little kid).
Thank you so much for this video. My kiddo got her expander 3 days ago. We didn’t get any tips on how to care for the expanders.
Hey y’all I got my expander like 2-4 weeks ago and the first week my mouth was sore 😮 now o can eat literally everything including sticky candy (not gum). Just to let you know food will most likely always get stuck up there but it’s easy to remove it. The first 2 weeks I used a toothpick to get food out but now I don’t really need that. That’s just an lil experience for people who is going to get it soon.
HOW DO U GET IT OUT ??? With ur tongue?
I’ve had mine for over a year at this point and quite frankly it’s getting to the point that I would rather have awful teeth than leave it in. It has caused me to choke on food on one occasion and the wire is constantly digging into my tongue. This thing sucks so bad that I would classify it as a torture device rather than a dental appliance.
I'd ask your doctor why its in this long. I never leave them this long
@@drdougortho I’m not precisely sure as to the reason they’ve been in this long but I’m guessing it’s related to a crossbow which he will be installing in order to correct my overbite.
@@thomasgregory3893 ah, that could be.
18h in my expander and God damn, what q hateful experience. The comments help a lot tough. Thank you 🙏
I have to get one Wednesday!😤 I’m mad! Thank you for this thought.
Edit: I got it yesterday the people who made it messed it up!!! Now I have to turn it from the back to the front! It’s horrible! I can’t eat because I can’t swallow! So I’m starving! And they turned it five times yesterday (yes I counted) and my mouth felt like it was going to explode!!!!!! They had to turn it a lot of times to make sure it would work. But it was so bad!
To everyone saying they can’t eat or they have a lisp etc, this will be temporary! I’m only on day 6 of having mine and my lisp is already gone! I can swallow fine too now but food gets stuck, that’s normal though. The first few days definitely suck but even though I’m only on day 6, I often forget it’s there. You got this and remember it will all give you a smile you’re happy with in the future.
My almost 9 year old got hers on Tuesday and we are at Day 3. 1st and 2nd day she had trouble talking. Her gums were hurting from irritation. Used the wax given in the kit to relieve her. Today it’s not her gums but the tongue is getting irritated by the expander. Her speech has improved with it in today. Trying to keep her busy and active. Going in next week to see if they can adjust any of the metals. She has a wiggly tooth next to the piece. Take care everyone.
Omg, I just got an expander a week ago, at first I couldn’t drink I couldn’t even swallow my own spit! Ugh
how long does it take for them to put it on?
@@bellarodriguez401 not to long ! Maybe like 10 min they have to mold it into your teeth. Not painful what so ever, trust me I was really nervous to ! But all you’re gonna feel is pressure no pain.
@Natalie Hawks mines didn’t fit either, they had to adjust it, and keep cutting the expander. The first few days are gonna be tuff. But hang on
Can I ask? Can you talk after outting them on?
i just got these and im now having yogurt for dinner and struggling 😂😤
how long did it take for them to put it on?
@@bellarodriguez401 I'm sorry I can't really tell you because I have the removable ones which take like a second to put in so im not sure since there are many different types of expanders
I just got them and I’m eating chicken nuggets
im struggling to drink a freaking milkshake-
@@bellarodriguez401 mine’s ain’t removable and I get them took out in a month
I just got mine and it’s actually not that bad, it is hard to talk and pronounce words it’s also hard to swallow but it doesn’t hurt at all. I haven’t tried eating with it yet since I’m scared that I’ll choke since I can’t even swallow water.
Swallowing will get better fast! Don't worry
@@drdougortho thank you
@@CrystalIXx24 did it get better?
@@mishmishmishmish2184 Yes it did. Within a week I was able to chew and swallow without a problem, talking wasn’t difficult and I got used to it. Soon enough it felt like it wasn’t even there!
Thank you for making this video, I'm on day 4 of trying to turn my sons key and I just found out that I have been doing it wrong.
Glad it helped!
Bro when you try to eat or drink it just gets stuck up there and it’s the most annoying thing
My turning tool looks like a teeny wrench and I was given a little rubber string to attach to it so when I turned my expander I could grab the wrench out in case I dropped it in my mouth. It also made turning so easy compared to the one in the video since there wasn’t a hole to stick into, it would just click in place and I’d turn it towards my throat
That's a different type expander called a "superscrew" ... you must need a lot of expansion:)
We didn't get NO KIT for this! 😬
I can swallow saliva, just not chew anything. Food keeps getting stuck in the expander 😠
right 😟 it suck eating
@@vaeh1954 Ong this shit making me mad
@Natalie Hawks this my second week and a half with it but the first 2 3 days chewing and swallowing is hard my first day I didn’t eat nothing
@@xboardin how is yours now?
@@vaeh1954 it’s good now I think I get braces when I go back
how long do they have to be in after 12 days of turning?
Hi im writing from Turkey. This is the best explaination i have come across. If we dont turn it properly do we have to see the dr each time. Or can we fix it ourselves.
Depends what you mean. I can't be sure, but you shouldn't have to see your dr every day to turn it, it should be done yourself unless you "lose" the hole/cant find it because it gets stuck.
@@drdougortho thank you!
For me I’m having trouble eating without getting food stuck between the top of my mouth, any tips?
Unfortunately that is part of the deal! Just rinse after meals and use a proxy brush to clean out under it after meals if needed!
Me too . And my mouth hurts day 1 and a half. . Plus I lost my key
@@drdougortho how can I find a replacement key if it’s a holiday weekend? I’m freaking out
@@alwayshisgirlanderson8628 I think if you go to the ortho they can give you one
@@aguyonyoutube4sure but it’s the holiday and my dentist is closed . Wonder if I can go to any open today . Thanks for responding to me
so um when i got my expander two days ago i had the urge to bite down so i did and i think i might've pushed my bracket things closer to my gum so now my two back teeth are really sensitive when i eat. what do i do?
Call your orthodontist! I may need to be recemented
This helped soooo much, thanks for the advice 😁
Awesome!
wait i have to keep it on for 6 months after done turning?😭
That's they typical protocol!
I have to keep it for a year
@@comedypranksters6481 bless your soul
I'm in day 3 and food keeps getting stuck between the roof of my mouth and the expander top, what do I do? I've even tried drinking lots of water after each bite but it's still stuck. (Thank you so much for answering all of the comments(
The designs of expanders vary, and how close to the roof if your mouth will vary as well... some will be more prone to getting food stuck than others. You will get used to it and get better at getting it out. Make sure to brush ON the expander after meals and a waterpik is helpful to keep it clean as well.
Did it got easier ?
When I got mine it was odd at first but after a week or so you get used to it… I never used any of the wax or any of the little extras… eventually it was all worthed when I got it out and eventually got the braces out
That's great to hear. That seems to be the typical experience!
If you want slower expansion, could you do half turns instead of full turns.
There device is called a "rapid palate expander".. usually no benefit to doing is slower... And may not work as well either
Do you have patients that got it on and just couldn’t do it so they got it off? Does every orthodontist have the option for removable ones for kids who can’t stop choking?
I've NEVER had a patient in my 18 year career, that didn't eventually get used to in in every way! Some take a day or 2, a few will take a week or so, but every kid has adapted and done great! Removable ones just don't give you true expansion of the palate, despite what some may say.
Any tips on eating aside from getting used to it??
Sorry... Just keep eating... It just happens!
Got it 👍👍
Hi I’ll be getting this in a few weeks. I’m autistic and struggle very much with sensory issues. Will this be especially hard for me and how can I make it easier??
We've treated many kids with sensory issues, and while the first week or so may be tough, you should get used to it! You just have to go through it. But talking as much as possible early on helps you to adjust faster. So drive your parents crazy and talk and sing a lot the first few days!
Good advice thanks😊
What can I do if small food gets stuck under my bottom expander? I’ve tried flossing and rinsing but nothing works
I dont 'know if you orthodontist gave you one, but we give our patients "proxy brushes" (looks like a tiny pipe-cleaner with a handle), to get out food that brushing/rinsing doesn't get... you can get them in the pharmacy/drug store!
Almost drowned in my own saliva when they were putting it in :/
I am literally drowning rn I can’t swallow tf
@@drawingfreak9936 lol
Fr like i got mine today and I’ve had to go to the bathroom and spit saliva out in the sink so many times
SAMEE
How did you stop it
How to use expander
May I ask how long this treatment gonna be? Is it 3-4 years? After expanding process, it has to be the phase II ( braces) or it can be an option? My boy is 10 years who is looking for the orthodontist. Please give advice!!!!
Most treatment is 18-24 months, but it obviously varies for every patient. The only way to know all the options for anyone is to be seen by the Orthodox will be treated by.
@@drdougortho thank you for the quick response. I have 2 orthodontist: one said it takes 18 months & will have braces in 2 years. One said it takes 3-4 years, no need braces after b/c it depends on how permanent teeth growth and the way they growth. Can you please advise how to choose the right orthodontist?
@@liennim637 unfortunately there is no way for me to tell which plan is appropriate unless I examine a patient. Talk to other people in your area who have been treated by different orthodontists, and ask your dentist if THEY or THEIR FAMILY needed treatment, where would they go?
I got top and bottom and oh boy just wow wow it hurts but you will get used to it but when you first get it try to eat like apple sauce or something soft and be prepared with pain killer and ibuprofen! Good luck 🍀
I’m 19, is there a chance for it to work at my age without needing screws?
Also my blood sugar is a bit high, 5,6 with 139 000 blood platelets I think, is it fine if they are going to extract teeth out? + I have a wisdom teeth that needs a procedure to open the gum and extract it
I’m getting mine in around a month, will it hurt? Will it sting? Will it cause headaches? Can I eat, I heard the metal can scratch your tongue.
Headaches are rare, if you're young it doesn't really hurt at all.. Eating will take a few days to get used to, but Everyone gets used to it! Don't worry!
@@drdougortho thanks I don’t wanna say my age but I’m below 16. How long will I not be able to swollow or drink for?
@@gamelegends8877 usually a few days and you can eat and speak fine!
@@drdougortho okay, I hope I dont starve
Last few questions, how can your prevent drooling and the metal scratching your tongue bcus I heard those happen a lot
Question, I've had my quad expander for about 2 months now and I wake up every day with an imprint from the expander causing my tongue to be in tremendous amount of pain, yesterday I woke up with a bloody tongue. Do you recommend anything I can wear through the night for my quad expander, for it to stop pressing against the expander through out the night? I've tried rpe tongue guards but they wouldn't stay on and they would rip. Just ordered some orthodots (wax) to try and put on the expander for overnight use.
This happens to people who push their tongue up against their palate. just keep your tongue clean so it won't get infected,and yes,the wax is a good idea!
How bad does it hurt when you turn the key? I’m getting these soon and I am nervous
It doesn't hurt at all... Just tight which goes away in a few minutes.
@@drdougortho oh okay! Thank you!
@@Jordan-ur2kz did you get them?
My teeth is really sore. My Ortho placed rubber separators and since then my teeth have been really sore. Any tips for that
Or take 2 to 3 days for that soreness to go away... But it always does!!
dr which brand water pick do u recommend?
also do the floss , water-pick , last brush teeth ?
my daughters has 6 cavity’s ….. i wasn’t aware of her needing to use the special tooth paste at night , and not to rinse her mouth…
i feel awful . so i appreciate all the tips ..
my younger kid need a expander , so that will be 3 kids in braces
Ok the order is floss (or waterpik) then brush for 2 min. Then fluoride rinse for 60 seconds. I don't have a preference of waterpik. But the 2 best electric tooth brushes in my opinion are the oral B or sonicare
You have to use different tooth paste at night ???
THANK YOU 🙏 I HAD FOOD STUCK AND IT WAS SO ANNOYING!!
I had it for a couple weeks now and it’s kinda normal now trust me
i’m getting a plalte explander tomorrow i’m legit scared hopefully it fits
In 15 years, I never saw a patient not get used to it! Don't worry!
Hey I got a expander and as I eat my teeth hit the Metal pieces towards my front teeth is that normal will it go away?
My 8 year old son got this two days ago
Since day one only his tongue is hurting by expander
Doctor doesn't gave any wax to us
So should I put wax in mouth or it will stop hurting by itself
As it is inside the mouth at roof of maxilla where he will going to continuously solow his saliva not on the gum
And our doctor told us to turn the screw once every three days
Some kids develop the habit of pushing their tongue against the expander and get and imprint of the screw on their tongue. It can tale longer for these patients to get used to it/become more comfortable, but the do. The wax probably won't help in this case. Give it a week or so and he should be better. The once every 3 days I can't speak for. Not sure why so slow, but best to ask why not the standard one (or even 2x) per day.
Day 3 with the Palatal Expender I hate this! FOR me i cry everyday because i cant eat nothing, i only eat one meal and its soup everytime i tired to eat something else it will get stuck up there! I just want to get it off, but iam not sure how long iam going to keep i hope not a long time. If you have really bad teeth how long do you keep it on? Or even if you dont have bad teeth how long can you still keep it on? Please i want an answer! And my dentist said i have to turn it with the key for 14 days and then stop idk if after iam going to take it off or just stop turning it with the key?
After you stop turning, it usually stays in about 6 months, or else it goes right back to where you were before. You WILL get used to it though! Give it a week or so
what can i do if my key got lost
we happily give a replacement if this happens to our patients. Ask your orthodontist!
Does it hurt when you put it in?
It shouldn't!!
@@drdougortho thanks a lot for the answer as I am quite worried for when o get them sometime soon
@@drdougortho just got mine yesterday and I can already eat normally! Nowhere near as bad as I though/expected
@@anton5469 awesome! glad to hear that!
Do I have to brush my teeth after eating a snack at school (sometimes cookies/a sandwich...)?
Ideally yes, author school, just brush when you get home!
I got them today but I didn’t get them tightened yet
my dentist told meto do it 2 times a day and i got to keep it 12 days
thats ok... sometimes we do twice a day too
What to do if at the top of my mouth Is pushing against the part that goes on side of my mouth
I just got my expander and braces today, i am struggling alot with talking and for the love of god i cant eat.
It ALWAYS gets better..... even when it feels like it won't... trust me:) Give it a few days
I got mine today and they didint give me a kit or anything so am I not supposed to turn it daily?
I just got mine 3 days ago, and i got the very uncomfortable ones where they have those brackets on the sides closet to the cheek and i was wondering how i could stop it from making my cheek from bleeding. I got wax to stick on the brackets but sometimes it doesn't work and doesnt stay for that long.
But my main question ; is there anyway to stop it from hurting my cheek while eating for the first 3 weeks
the wax will stay on BETTER if you can somehow dry the area of metal before putting it on. i know it shard, but usually a papertowel around your finger to dry it a little while pulling your cheek out, then stick the wax on. I know its annoying, but eventually you will get used to the tubes that stick out.
@@drdougortho ok thanks!!!
At tips on how to stop the salvia
Just got it today, and i thought I did something wrong when I tried eating the school rice lol. Eating so far and drinking is so annoying, food everywhere lol.
It will get better soon!
Can you talk while having them?
I’m getting mine in 7 days do they affect how you talk? cause I have school and I’m gonna have to talk
Yes, expect a lisp for a week or so
@@drdougortho oh ok thanks!
this is kind of a big problem I basically was eating with my expander and braces and my inside of my mouth got stuck on my braces on my expander what do I do?!
I now have a soccer game to now by the time I come back I hope for an answer please🙏🙏🙏
HELP MEEEEEEE please
Call your orthodontist! You don't want to cut/hurt yourself worse by trying to rip it free yourself!
I’m getting mine tomorrow, with braces! Any tips to try so it doesn’t hurt as much?
I just got mine today !
@@kiki.3915 Me too! My mouth is mega on fire but I think that’s normal :)
@@bear.69 i’m getting it today i’m so scared 🥺
@@bear.69 is it any better now?
What age is too early to put a expander on? My son will be 6 in 3 months and his orthodontist is recommending to get the expander now. I feel my son is no mature enough to deal with all this😔. Just brushing his teeth alone is a struggle
It varies based on the reason and the development of the teeth. 6 May be fine, BUT I usually don't see a reason to rush into it, as it can be just as effective at 7 or 8 w/o. BUT I don't know the specifics on your son's case
U can put temporary expander which is removable and it won't be painful u can remove it when u have food...
Doc can I have smooth chocolates or completely no chocolate?
Chocolate is no problem! Just brush good! 😄
I’m getting mine today
Good luck!
My daughter has had hers in for about 3 weeks. She is now getting swelling on the roof of her mouth. She says it only hurts when she eats. I’m guessing maybe she got something stuck in the roof of her mouth now there is no room to get in between the expander and the roof of her mouth. Anyone else have any problems like this?
Either go see your orthodontist so they can clean it out, or something like a waterpick will help clean that tough area out. You are right, most likely food stuck and irritating her palate
Is the expander appliance normally included on dental brace or separate fee? Thanks
It’s also included I’m paying 5 grand for my braces and they charging my expander from there I don’t recall how much but they do include in there I think I get the expander off already this Friday been having it since the beginning of the year
@@kevintorres5209 so when you get yours taking off do you go right into braces from there? I go back to the dentist next month for him to decide if I can take it off
@@alwayshisgirlanderson8628 well I still haven’t gotten my expander out yet I just went in for. A wire change and elastic that you wear full time I got my braces in November and expander in January I was told I gotta keep this expander for a year
@@kevintorres5209 good to know. Thanks I’m ready for this to come out now lol
@@kevintorres5209 oh no I hope my dentist doesn’t say I have to keep this longer than a month, I really miss food. Thanks for responding. Everyone’s questions answers and feedback is definitely helpful
I’m getting them at the end of March and wanna know how log it takes to get them
Hope long to get what? The Expander takes a few weeks to make, and just a a few minutes to cement
got the rubber bands in, getting fitted for the bar next week ;(
i feel your pain
Mine is staying on for two months but I’m so scared to eat
don't worry... just takes a few days to get used to it!
how much time does it take to get it put on?
The way we do it, just a few minutes!!!
Omg thank you this will really help me
My pleasure!
I got my expander 7 months ago and my braces 4 months ago they still haven’t took the expander out
Well often you have to turn it for a month or longer... Then it's usually 6 months AFTER the turning is complete before it's removed. But ask your sister 8 when it will be removed.
Hey man question. The wires on one side of my expander are so far up that they are pushing into the roof of my mouth and actually like going into the roof of my mouth. Should I be concerned about this?
Yes, they wires should NOT embed in your palate. Call your orthodontist
@@drdougortho thank you
I ve my expander for 6 months, they would remove it my next visit which is in about a month. My tongue hurts when i try to eat some certain food. And i have a wound on my tongue. Is there a way to make the wound heal, while having the expander?
Unfortunately if it's been there that long it likely won't resolve until it's removed next month. Almost there!
In cleft palate individual there is a little gap in the palate through which liquid moves to the nose sometimes, does using an expander increase the size of the gap.
It can. Cleft palate and/or cleft lip needs multiple treatments starting early in infancy and through sometimes teen years to have the best result. Usually best treated with a team including orthodontists, plastic surgeons, plastic surgeons, ENTs, etc
I’ve had mine for around 9 months and I’m 16. Is that too long?
longer isn't usually harmful, but in my opinion often unecessary. But ask your doctor, there may be a reason for your specific situation!
How tf do u wear this for 9 months
@@ulysses4989 ikr and I’m still wearing it
I just got expanders 2 days ago and I cannot bite into anything bc my molars feel like they are about to come out.
What should I do?? My dentist says it’s normal but I can only drink and make my food liquid. Will this pain go away?
that should improve the first week. If not give your doc a call and let him know!
Thank you Dr. Doug!
I can barely eat anything what should I eat for the first week without chocking. And will I ever be able to normal with them?
Give it a week... you will be eating just fine!
@@drdougortho so what should eat for now?
@@Scotty. drink shakes, eat soups until you get used to it
Mine was glued on for some reason
My orthodontist told me to turn twice in alternate days. Can I turn once everyday. It hurts so bad to turn twice at once.
I’m getting mine out tomorrow!!
Congrats!!
My brother does not want to eat or drink anything cause of it and says he wants it off tomorrow
Extremely common! Don't worry it will get better in a few days!
got it on like 40 minutes ago. I hate everything about it
Sorry. But it will get better in a few days!
how long did it take to get it put on?
@@Sara-vb8xn idk like 10-15 mins or less i cant remember
@@azioxx okayyyy tyty i get mine on tmrw do you get a lisp from it?
@@Sara-vb8xn yes you get a bad lisp got mine 2 days ago and I lisp pretty bad
Can adults get this too?
Yes, but there either needs to be a surgical procedure to assist it or some temporary anchor screws used. The palate of adults usually cannot be expanded as simply as a child.
i got mine almost 9 days ago and i hate it. i’m feeling nauseous every day after eating. going to school with that thing in your mouth it’s really hard.
i can’t wait to get it off and eat whatever i want. it’s hard ik but it’s the only way to fix my smile so…
Don't worry, many patients feel like this, but they always get better!
@@drdougortho i hope so, thank u!!
Hello, I’m mostly worried about the pain and if it is a pain when you get it put in, im getting one tomorrow and I hope you have some advice
I also want to add I have a saxophone role in a big band so if you have any tips for that it could hrlp
Help*
All I can tell u is that there is NO pain when I insert an expander! Dont worry!!
@@drdougortho thanks!
I just got mine and my tounge feels sore, and I can’t swallow my spit!!
That will go away later today! Don't worry:)
i got mine put in today , is it normal to feel like your going to gage all the time , i just keep gagging 😫😫
Any tips of taking the food out that is stuck between expander?
Use a proxy brush... if your dr didn't give you one, you can find them in any drug store or on amazon
I have marks on my tongue because of the expander any way to remove these marks?
they will go away when you get it removed, don't worry!
i wish i had that, now it like i cant even eat anymore. the jaw expander then looked actually good and you could chew/eat and stuff but now i got mine and they totally changed the style and now i cant eat
Sorry to hear that. This type is called a HYRAX (the HY stands for "hygienic" bc it's easier to keep clean than other types.
Is it weird that my ortho told me to do it twice a week (Wednesday and Sunday )
I can’t see the hole for the key
You have it stuck between holes. Call your ortho!
A little bit late here but I just got my expander. Is it normal to feel like you gonna throw up? When I say some letters or when I eat I feel like I wanna throw up
Very normal for some in the beginning.. It always gets better in a few days!
I just got my expander and I can’t eat anything! I’m trying to eat noodles but it won’t let me chew anything! How do I eat?!?!
There is no trick I can tell you. Just trust me that in a few days everything will get easier! Including eating!
@@drdougortho ok thanks!!!
Just got emm but everything gets stuck on top
You'll get used to it! Don't worry!
If i got braces and the expander on at the same time will the gap be as noticeable?
That is usually not done, you have to let the space develop first