Removable Schwartz Expander
Why: The purpose of this appliance is to widen (expand) your upper jaw (palate). The key we gave you fits in the tiny hole in the middle of your appliance. We will have you insert the key into the appliance and push the key back towards the back of the mouth until you see the next hole rotate forward. This allows the key to be inserted into the appliance for the next turn. You will then need to pull the key out towards the back (if you pull the key out to the front it will undo the turn you just did).
We typically ask that you turn the appliance as prescribed 2 times per week on nonconsecutive days.
What to Expect: It is normal to feel pressure for a few minutes when the expander is activated. However, if you feel significant discomfort, pain, or dizziness, stop turning the appliance and call our office. It is likely that a space will open between the front teeth as the appliance widens the arch. Don’t be alarmed; this is an expected change. The space will disappear as the front teeth come back together after the desired expansion has occurred.
We will ask you take your expander out when you are eating, drinking and brushing. Please keep it in the case when you are not wearing it! To keep your expander clean simply brush it every time you brush your teeth. Just use your toothbrush and warm (not hot) water. If you would like you can also soak your expander in denture cleaner. Follow the instructions on the denture cleaning box. This can be done a couple times a month or as needed, if you brush it twice a day it should stay pretty clean!
How Long: We usually will ask you to wear the appliance full time for 4-6 months and then just at nighttime after that to maintain the expansion.
