The Rapid Palatal Expander (RPE) is an appliance that expands/widens/spreads the roof of the mouth. Sometimes a patient’s upper jaw needs to be enlarged for a proper fit with the lower jaw and a healthy, stable bite. In such cases, Dr. Jennings may widen the upper jaw with the RPE. The appliance has a center screw that must be turned with a key. This device spreads the center of your palate into two halves thereby separating the upper jaw. New bone then fills in between the two halves and the upper jaw remains permanently wider.
How long will it take?
This is determined by Dr. Jennings depending on your specific needs but usually lasts several weeks. The appliance remains in place for 4-6 months longer after activation has stopped. This allows new bone to form in the roof of your mouth, which will insure that the expansion will not relapse.
Will I feel it move?
Some initial discomfort and pressure may be felt; other times a tingling or itch under your expander may be experienced. A tingling sensation or pressure may occur on the bridge of your nose.
The first noticeable effect of the “RPE” is that the FRONT TEETH WILL BEGIN TO SEPARATE. This is a sign that the appliance is working properly (don’t panic). The space between your front teeth is TEMPORARY. The space will close naturally when the key turning is stopped.
How to activate your appliance
INSERT THE KEY carefully into the hole or slot in the middle of your appliance. PUSH THE KEY gently and steadily from the front TOWARD THE BACK of your mouth. DO NOT BACK UP remove the key toward the throat. Make sure you can see the next hole come around to the front for the next day’s turn.