Expander Ortho Treatment

1. 01

   Free growth assessment

   X-rays and digital scans show the width of the palate, the position of the adult teeth still to come, and whether the timing is right. She shows you the appliance and walks through the daily routine.

2. 02

   She decides on timing

   If your child is not ready, there is no push. Growth is seen for complimentary observation visits until it is.

3. 03

   Fitting and turning

   The expander is attached to the upper molars, then Dr. Haykani practices the turning with you in the office until you are confident. One turn a day at home, usually for a few weeks.

4. 04

   Holding and next steps

   It stays in place around four to six months while the new bone solidifies and stabilizes the wider arch, then she plans what comes next. Braces or aligners usually follow to straighten the individual teeth.

• 01 How much does expander treatment cost?

  Early treatment for growing children, including expanders, runs $3,500 to $5,000 from start to retainer. If your child is not ready yet, growth is monitored at no charge until the timing is right. The exact fee is quoted at your free consultation, with 0% financing.

• 02 Does turning the expander hurt?

  No sharp pain. Your child feels pressure or mild tightness in the roof of the mouth or behind the nose for a few minutes after each turn, and it fades quickly.

• 03 How long will my child wear the expander?

  The active turning phase usually lasts a few weeks. The appliance then stays in place around four to six months so the new bone hardens and holds the wider jaw.

• 04 Will it affect speech?

  A slight lisp and extra saliva are common for the first few days. The tongue adapts quickly and normal speech usually returns within a week.

• 05 Can my child eat normally?

  Most of their normal diet, yes. Sticky, chewy, and very hard foods are best avoided so the appliance stays put, and cutting food smaller helps in the first few days.

• 06 What if we miss a day of turning?

  Simply resume the normal schedule the next day. Avoid doing two turns at once to catch up, as that causes unnecessary discomfort.

• 07 A gap has appeared between the front teeth. Is that normal?

  It is a very good sign. It means the two halves of the palate are moving apart exactly as intended. The gap closes naturally over time, or with braces later.

• 08 How do we keep the expander clean?

  Brush around it every time your child brushes, paying attention to the bands on the molars and the center mechanism. A water flosser or orthodontic brush clears anything trapped above the appliance.

• 09 Will my child still need braces afterwards?

  Usually, yes. The expander corrects the width of the jaw and creates the space, then braces or aligners straighten the individual teeth and finish the bite.

• 10 How do I know if my child needs one?

  The assessment is free, including X-rays and scans, and Dr. Haykani will tell you plainly whether now is the right moment or whether watching a while serves your child better.

• 11 How do I book a consultation?

  Request an appointment online, or call or text (661) 425-0559. New patients are usually seen within the week, with Sunday and evening appointments available.

• 12 Can teenagers or adults have expansion?

  Expansion works best while the two halves of the palate are still separate, which is why timing matters. For older teens and adults, Dr. Haykani explains which options fit how mature the jaw is.

Expanders near you

Directions and timing from your part of the valley.

Valencia Santa Clarita Canyon Country Saugus Stevenson Ranch Newhall Castaic

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