Hello, during orthodontic treatment, there are many cases where teeth do not have enough space to align properly with braces alone. In such situations, the orthodontist may recommend orthodontic expansion screw braces to widen the dental arch before or simultaneously with braces. The doctor will explain each aspect in detail so that you can understand correctly and feel confident throughout the treatment process.
What Are Orthodontic Expansion Screw Braces?
The doctor’s explanation is as follows: orthodontic expansion screw braces are an orthodontic treatment method that uses an appliance equipped with an expansion screw to widen the dental arch, creating additional space for teeth to move into their proper positions.
Essentially, this is not an independent orthodontic treatment method but rather an important supportive step in orthodontics, especially for patients with narrow dental arches and severe crowding. Properly indicated palatal expansion helps orthodontic treatment proceed more smoothly and minimizes the need for tooth extraction.
Why Is Palatal Expansion Needed in Orthodontics?
According to orthodontic principles, palatal expansion is indicated when the dental arch is too narrow relative to the number of teeth, leaving insufficient room for proper alignment. If this step is skipped and teeth are forced into a restricted space, they may relapse, develop malocclusion, or negatively affect the alveolar bone.
Palatal expansion helps to:
- Biologically widen the dental arch
- Create space for safe tooth movement
- Improve occlusion and arch form
- Reduce the need for tooth extraction in certain cases
This is why orthodontic expansion screw braces are often prescribed early in an orthodontic treatment plan.
How Does an Expansion Screw Work?
An expansion screw works based on the principle of gradually creating separation forces between the two sides of the jawbone, which is especially effective in children and adolescents whose jawbones are still developing.
During treatment, the doctor will instruct you or your family member to turn the expansion screw according to the prescribed schedule. Each adjustment generates a gentle but continuous force, gradually expanding the dental arch over time. When properly controlled and performed using the correct technique, this process is safe and does not damage the bone or teeth.
Who Needs Orthodontic Expansion Screw Braces?
Based on clinical experience, orthodontic expansion screw braces are commonly indicated in the following cases:
- Narrow dental arch with severe crowding
- Misaligned teeth with insufficient space for arrangement
- Crossbite caused by a narrow jaw
- Children in the jaw growth and development stage
- Certain adults with mildly narrow dental arches
For adults, palatal expansion requires more careful evaluation because the jawbone has already matured. The effectiveness depends on the degree of arch constriction and the expansion method selected.
How Much Do Orthodontic Expansion Screw Braces Cost?
Regarding the question how much orthodontic expansion screw braces cost, the doctor would like to explain that the cost of palatal expansion is usually not charged separately. Instead, it is often included in the total orthodontic treatment cost or added depending on the individual case.
Typically, the cost of an expansion screw appliance ranges from 3 to 8 million VND, depending on the type of expansion screw and the duration of use.
The specific cost depends on:
- Type of expansion appliance
- Degree of dental arch constriction
- Age and jawbone condition
- Overall orthodontic treatment plan
To know exactly how much orthodontic expansion screw braces cost for your specific condition, you should undergo a direct examination and consultation with an orthodontist.
Care Instructions During the Palatal Expansion Phase
During the expansion period, doctors recommend paying special attention to oral hygiene and strictly following appliance usage instructions. The expansion screw must be adjusted according to the prescribed schedule, direction, and force to avoid prolonged discomfort or compromised expansion results.
In addition, you should consume soft foods during the initial stage, avoid excessive chewing, and refrain from using your hands or tongue to manipulate the appliance. If you experience significant pain, appliance detachment, or prolonged discomfort, you should return for a follow-up visit promptly so the doctor can evaluate and make necessary adjustments.
If you have been advised to undergo orthodontic expansion screw treatment or still have concerns about its effectiveness and cost, you may visit Gangwhoo Cosmetic Hospital for a direct consultation with an orthodontist. Here, orthodontic and braces services are developed according to standardized medical protocols and personalized for each patient’s condition, helping ensure that both palatal expansion and orthodontic treatment are carried out safely, effectively, and with long-term stability.
