Choose palatal expansion for kids with us and benefit from:
- 5* Google rated clinic
- 136+ 5* patient reviews
- Experienced, specialist orthodontists
- Superb results at competitive prices
- Friendly, caring team
- State-of-the-art technology
Choose palatal expansion with us and benefit from:
- 5* Google rated clinic
- 130+ 5* patient reviews
- Experienced, specialist orthodontists
- Superb results at competitive prices
- Friendly, caring team
- State-of-the-art technology
Palatal Expansion For Kids
Early orthodontic intervention can play a pivotal role in guiding proper dental and facial development in children. 60-80% of facial growth is completed by age 10. This is why we need to act early.
One of the key tools in this early phase of care is palatal expansion, a preventive treatment designed to address common issues such as crowding, crossbites, and restricted airway development.
By gently and safely widening the upper jaw, we create space for proper tooth eruption, support optimal nasal breathing, and reduce the likelihood of more invasive treatment in adolescence or adulthood. We as well give the lower jaw more room to grow forward.
Meet your specialist orthodontist
Dr Steffen Decker PhD
GDC 131767
Over 16 years experience
- Specialist Orthodontist BDS
- MAS in Lingual Orthodontics
- Kois Recognized Specialist
- Program Director MSc in Dento-facial Orthodontics
- MSc in Clear Aligner Orthodontics
- Specialist Orthodontist BDS
- MAS in Lingual Orthodontics
- Kois Recognized Specialist
- Program Director MSc in Dento-facial Orthodontics
- MSc in Clear Aligner Orthodontics
Treatment typically involves:
- A short fitting appointment where the appliance is placed. All our devices are custom 3d printed
- A home activation phase, where a small key is used to gently turn a central screw (in fixed appliances), usually once every other day
- A retention phase, where the appliance remains in place to stabilise the new jaw width. Sometimes we continue immediately with clear aligners
- Regular follow-up appointments every few weeks to monitor progress and make adjustments as needed. This can be remotely or face to face
- Treatment length varies, but active expansion often takes 4-8 weeks, followed by a few months of retention
Why is Palate Expansion Necessary?
Palatal expansion is often recommended to address several key concerns:
- where the upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth, often due to a narrow upper jaw.
- when there is not enough room for permanent teeth to erupt properly.
- especially canines, which may become trapped due to insufficient space.
- children with narrow palates often have underdeveloped nasal airways, contributing to mouth breathing, snoring, or sleep-disordered breathing.
Cost of Palatal Expansion for Children
| Treatment | Cost |
|---|---|
|
RME |
from £3,250 |
|
Hybrid RME ( with mini screws/TADs) |
from £3,450 |
Benefits of Palate Expansion
Early expansion can prevent the need for tooth extractions, reduce the risk of jaw surgery later on, and promote better long-term health outcomes.
- Improved dental alignment, reducing or eliminating the need for extractions.
- Better jaw balance and facial symmetry during growth.
- Enhanced nasal airflow, supporting proper breathing and sleep quality.
- Clearer speech development in some cases, especially where tongue posture and palatal width were limiting factors.
- Over 120 5* Google Reviews
- Unrivalled specialist orthodontic expertise
- Highly qualified and experienced team
- Superb state-of-the-art practice
- Exceptional level of treatment and care
- Competitevely priced excellence
- 0% finance options available
- Family-friendly, welcoming environment
Palatal expansion results
Palatal expansion for kids FAQ’s
The ideal window is between ages 4 and 10, when the upper jaw suture is still flexible. Expansion is possible in older children and teens, but may require different techniques (TADs) or longer treatment.
Most children experience only mild discomfort or pressure, especially during the first few days of activation. Any soreness typically resolves quickly.
Active expansion usually lasts a few weeks, followed by a retention phase of 3–6 months to allow the bone to stabilise.
Palatal expansion is considered very safe when monitored by a specialist. Temporary effects may include mild speech changes, a gap between the front teeth (which later closes), or minor gum irritation. Serious complications are rare.
See inside our superb modern orthodontic clinic
Our stunning practice is as comfortable and welcoming as it looks. Throughout we are trying to tell a story, so that our patients feel comfortable. We have all the latest equipment and facilities available to offer you the very best in orthodontics and children’s dentistry.
Orthodontics for kids
In this video, Dr Steffen Decker, talks about the different types of orthodontics we provide.
Our philosophy
In this video, Dr Steffen Decker, gives an insight into the philosophy at the heart of our practice and all we do.
