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Dental braces
Sir/Madam
I needed orthodontic treatment for my upper front teeth. So i consulted an orthodontist and asked about the treatment plan. The orthodontist said that he will give metallic braces and an expander to create space.
We then consulted another orthodontist and he said that expander will not work for a 15+ year old girl. He said that he will not disturb the structure and will only bring the teeth inside by putting braces and doing IPR if required for space.
I am confused on which is the right step. Does expander work on a 15+ year old girl or not?
Kindly help that which treatment approach is the right one. Thanks in advance
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Hello,
At 15–16 years of age, maxillary expansion may or may not be effective depending on skeletal maturity. In some patients, the mid-palatal suture is still responsive; in others, expansion becomes limited and only dental changes occur.
The correct treatment plan (expander vs braces with IPR) depends on proper diagnosis — especially growth pattern and jaw relationship.
Please upload the OPG and Lateral Cephalogram for accurate evaluation and better guidance regarding the right approach.
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At 15 years of age, the mid-palatal suture may be partially fused, so the effectiveness of a conventional expander depends on individual growth status and skeletal maturity. In some patients, expansion can still be done, while in others space can be managed with braces, arch development, or IPR. The correct approach can only be decided after clinical examination, records, and radiographic evaluation.
Next Steps
Please consult an orthodontist for complete records including X-rays/CBCT, study models, and growth assessment. Based on diagnosis, the orthodontist will decide whether expansion or non-extraction space management is appropriate.
Health Tips
Treatment plans can differ because each case is unique. Avoid comparing plans without proper diagnostic records, and discuss pros and cons with your orthodontist before proceeding.
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