Early Expansion
What is Early Expansion?
Early expansion is a gentle orthodontic approach that widens the jaws during childhood, when growth is still occurring. The roof of the mouth is also the floor of the nose — so when the palate is expanded, it not only creates room for proper tooth alignment but also increases nasal volume to support better breathing.
Why Consider Early Expansion?
Children with narrow jaws often struggle with both crowding of the teeth and airway concerns. Expansion may benefit children who experience:
- Mouth breathing or chronic nasal congestion
- Snoring or restless sleep
- Crossbite, open bite, or crowding
- Speech concerns related to tongue space
- Dark circles under the eyes or facial growth imbalance
How Does It Work?
A custom appliance is placed on the upper and/or lower teeth to gently widen the jaws over time. This creates space for permanent teeth to erupt into healthy bone and gum tissue, reducing the risk of future gum recession, and allows the airway to function more effectively. Expansion is most successful when completed early, while the child is still growing and the jaws are most adaptable.
What Happens Next?
Once expansion is complete, children may transition into other orthodontic guidance (such as airway-focused aligners) or continue monitoring growth. Expansion is best combined with myofunctional therapy and sleep support to ensure long-term stability and optimal results.
