Quad Helix vs Rapid Palate Expander (RPE)

Teeth crowding occurs when there is not enough room for all of the teeth to fit normally in the mouth. It is usually the result of a variety of genetic and environmental reasons including small jaw size, large tooth size, and extra teeth. If it is left untreated beyond age 11, it tends to worsen.

If your child has crowded teeth, you should seek treatment as soon as possible. Crowded teeth can take away their self-confidence and prevent them from enjoying the attractive smile they deserve. They can also lead to poor oral hygiene because it can be very difficult to keep crowded teeth clean. Your child may become frustrated when trying to brush or floss their teeth and disregard their oral hygiene as a result. In addition, crowded teeth may cause a poor bite, which can hinder the jaw joint and lead to issues with nutrition and chewing. As our Cary, NC dental expert friends Lane and Associate like to say, “treat your children’s teeth like you treat their emotions.”

How a Quad Helix Palate Expander Can Help

A Quad Helix is a fixed expander for the upper jaw. It differs from the rapid palate expander because it does not require turning to be activated. It is often used to widen the upper jaw in the front and/or back and rotate the upper first molars. Here at Sims Orthodontics, we often recommend Quad Helix palate expanders for children with crowded teeth as it can effectively widen the upper arch.

Schedule a Complimentary Consultation Today

If your child has crowded teeth, we encourage you to contact Sims Orthodontics today to schedule a complimentary consultation. We’ll evaluate their condition and inform you whether a palate expander can improve it.