Hello Sir!
Palate expansion is nothing but separation of the upper jaw by a screw placed in the center of the palate to correct malformation of the jaw. It's done in cases where the upper jaw is smaller than the low jaw or if it's trapped by the lower jaw during the growth phase. It's very effective in correcting such malocclusions during growth phase, that is, pre-teens.
But with age, as in Adults, the sutures or the joint, between the bones are so strong and hard that it's almost impossible to separate these bones unless the patient undergoes a minor surgery wherein the surgeon separates the jaw bones and an Orthodontist applies the palatal screw to the palate post surgery which when activated separates the jaw. This is called Surgically Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion. This works on all age groups.
The time and cost of the treatment varies from doctor to doctor, city to city.
Yes, this treatment can be done for the lower jaw as well but then it's not Palatal Expansion, as palate is present only in the upper jaw, it's called Mandibular Expansion or Lower jaw expansion.
But I would suggest that you look into Miniscrew Assisted Maxillary Expansion too. Miniscrews are small screws that are used to expand the jaws along with Expander. It's very effective.
I request you to contact an Orthodontist and also a Surgeon to know the exact treatment plan and the cost of the treatment.
If you have any queries please feel free to ask.
Regards,
Dr. Arshita Singh (Orthodontist), Dentaire@BH, Dental Clinic, Road No 4, Banjara hills, Hyderabad.
Next Steps
Consult an Orthodontist and a Maxillofacial Surgeon
Health Tips
Please inquire about Miniscrews Assisted Maxillary Expansion.