Palatial Expander worries

[ilovemykids]

Hi, I read a thread on palatal expanders regarding discomfort. I am wondering if anyone has ever questioned or saw a physical change in their child? My daughter has had the bottom one on for about 6 months (no longer turning the key) and the top one on for about a month. I am finding her lips and mouth looks wider and top lip looks fuller. I am now worried it is caused by the expander. Has anyone had this situation? I am thisclose to calling the doctor (who I am sure will disagree) to have it removed out of fear I am changing her skeletal structure to a disadvantage. She is 8 yrs. old.

Help

 

[Hedy]

Hi, I read a thread on palatal expanders regarding discomfort. I am wondering if anyone has ever questioned or saw a physical change in their child? My daughter has had the bottom one on for about 6 months (no longer turning the key) and the top one on for about a month. I am finding her lips and mouth looks wider and top lip looks fuller. I am now worried it is caused by the expander. Has anyone had this situation? I am thisclose to calling the doctor (who I am sure will disagree) to have it removed out of fear I am changing her skeletal structure to a disadvantage. She is 8 yrs. old.

Help

From what I recall of my preparing myself for orthodontia 12 years ago, I *believe* it is possible for orthodontia to affect the lips.
I'd try to schedule a sit-down meeting with the orthodontist and try to present your concerns in a rational manner (s/he may have pictures of results of the pallatte expander in other patients, or be able to otherwise allay your fears).

 

[Frantasmic]

My daughter just completed phase 1 of braces, etc. She didn't have to wear an expander, but seeing the before and after shots of her face was eye opening.

Remember she's 8 years old and is growing as well has having an external force try to manipulate the growth pattern. They know what they are doing. You can express your concerns, but given that you haven't gone to school to learn how to do what they are doing, I would give them the benefit of the doubt rather than trust your thoughts from just observing the changes (not to belittle that). But, make sure you have their imput before demanding a stop to anything.