What is the Noise When I Turn the Key?

The palate expander is designed to widen the upper jaw by applying gentle pressure on the upper molars every time an adjustment is made. If your child is in need of a palate expander, Dr. Sims will encourage them to care for it by brushing it with a toothpaste and rinsing or swishing with water to flush out food between the expander and the roof of their mouth.

He will also suggest they maintain a soft diet for the first few days and avoid any sticky and hard foods that may dislodge the expander. In addition, Dr. Sims will educate you on these four steps so you can perform an adjustment:

1. Tilt your child’s head back in a well-lit area.
2. Insert the key in the hole until it is firmly secured in place.
3. Push the key toward the back of your child’s mouth. You’ll find the fender will rotate and there will be a new hole. The rotation will stop when the key and the back of the expander meet.
4. Press back and down toward the tongue to remove the key.

If you hear cracking when adjusting your child’s palate expander, you should check their device for any defects. In the event your child experiences any pain or discomfort after hearing the crack or you notice anything strange with the appliance, contact out our office right away. Dr. Sims will thoroughly inspect the device and let you know whether there is a serious issue.

Contact Sims Orthodontics

It can be nerve-racking to hear a cracking noise when adjusting a palate expander. Rest assured Dr. Sims and his team will uncover any defects and let you know how to proceed. Call Sims Orthodontics today at 850-477-7715.