Children's Palatal Expanders in Fort Collins, CO
invisalign® palatal expander
Make room for
a healthier smile.
A palatal expander is an orthodontic appliance that gently widens the upper jaw over time. As the upper jaw expands, it can create more space for teeth, improve how the upper and lower teeth fit together, and support more balanced development.
When the upper jaw is widened, the nasal passages can also become roomier—often improving airflow and encouraging nasal breathing. For some kids, this may help reduce mouth breathing and related concerns like snoring or restless sleep.
Palatal expansion may be recommended for children who have:
Crowding (not enough space for teeth)
Crossbite or bite misalignment
A narrow upper arch/palate
Signs that a small upper jaw may be contributing to airway or breathing challenges
Expansion is typically most effective while a child is still growing—often in the elementary to early middle-school years. Dr. Murphy will evaluate your child’s growth stage and recommend the right timing based on their unique needs.
Your child might be a good candidate if you notice:
Crowded or overlapping teeth
A crossbite (top teeth sitting inside the bottom teeth)
Frequent mouth breathing or trouble breathing through the nose
A narrow-looking upper arch or an uneven bite
The best next step is an evaluation at Harbor Dental so Dr. Murphy can confirm what’s going on and review options.
At your consultation, we’ll assess bite alignment, spacing, and airway-related concerns, then create a plan that fits your child’s goals and timeline. If expansion is recommended, we’ll walk you through appliance options, home care, and how we’ll monitor progress throughout treatment.
How do palatal expanders work?
At Harbor Dental, Dr. Ciaran Murphy offers custom palatal expanders that gently and gradually widen the upper jaw during growth. This non-invasive treatment helps create space for proper tooth alignment while also supporting improved airway function, healthier breathing, and long-term oral health.
Contact Us Today!
Wondering if treatment is right for your child? Contact Harbor Dental to schedule a consultation. Our caring team is happy to answer your questions and help you explore the best next steps.
Palatal Expander FAQs
Most kids adjust quickly. It’s normal to feel some pressure at first (especially right after an adjustment), and speech may sound different for a short time while the tongue adapts. These changes are usually temporary, and we’ll coach your child on what to expect.
Active expansion usually lasts a few weeks to a few months, followed by a retention phase to allow the bone to stabilize. The total timeline depends on your child’s needs and treatment plan.
Most children are able to continue their normal routines with very little disruption. There may be a short adjustment period where speech sounds slightly different or eating feels unusual, but this typically resolves as the tongue adapts. Dr. Ciaran Murphy and the Harbor Dental team provide clear instructions and ongoing support to help your child stay comfortable and confident throughout treatment.
Good oral hygiene is especially important during expansion treatment. Parents and children will receive guidance on brushing around the appliance, keeping it clean, and avoiding sticky or hard foods that could cause damage. Regular check-ins at Harbor Dental allow us to monitor progress, make adjustments if needed, and ensure everything stays on track.
Palatal expansion often helps reduce crowding and improves bite alignment, which can make future orthodontic treatment simpler and shorter. While some children may still need braces or aligners later on, early expansion can help create a healthier foundation and reduce the need for more complex treatment as your child grows.
