Palatal Expander

When the lower and upper teeth fail to come together, your dentist may recommend a

palatal expander to widen your child's upper jaw, which is usually suitable only for kids under age 15, while bones are still pliable. The piece is made up of a screw with bands that attach to the teeth. Kids usually use the appliance for three months after the upper jaw has widened, to maintain space. Your orthodontist may also refer to this appliance as a rapid palatal expander, a rapid maxillary expansion appliance, or an orthodontic expander.

Lower Lingual Holding Arch

A lower lingual holding arch prevents teeth from crowding in the mouth. It uses two bands on the lower molars attached to a U-shaped bar and stops the permanent molars from pushing forward.

Nance Holding Arch

Also called a Nance button, the Nance holding arch is used for kids who have lost their baby teeth prematurely. It maintains space for the permanent teeth and avoiding a forward shift of the first molars. The appliance features two bands attached to the back teeth and an acrylic button that covers part of the anterior palate.