What is an RPE in orthodontics?

A Rapid Palate Expander (or “RPE”) is used to expand the palate and to correct the bite that either has a crossbite (“opposite” bite) or a narrow upper arch. It widens the upper jaw to create space for permanent teeth. An RPE is usually worn for six to nine months in order to correct the bite.

How long does RPE last?

The RPE needs to stay in place for a good 4 to 6 months because new bone will grow into the space created. Each turn widens a very small distance, but over time, the palate becomes wider.

What does RPE mean in dentistry?

One of the common dental appliances used by dentists on growing children is the rapid palatal expander (RPE). It is used to expand the palate and to correct the bite that either has a crossbite (“opposite” bite) or a narrow upper arch. It widens the upper jaw to create space for permanent teeth.

What is an RPE Expander?

Rapid Palatal Expansion or RPE. Upper jaw expansion is a form of orthodontic treatment that is used in specific cases. By widening the circumference of the palate, the perimeter of the dental arch increases to create more space for teeth growth.

How does reverse pull headgear work?

Reverse-pull headgear works to correct an underbite by applying pulling forces to the upper mandible (jaw), encouraging realignment and bone growth so the upper jaw can ‘catch up’ with the prominent lower jaw.

Can lower jaw be expanded?

Most orthodontic expanders are used in the upper part of the mouth to expand the palate, but it is also possible to expand the lower jaw.

Which material is used to stimulate healing during a Pulpotomy on a primary tooth?

Pulpotomy is a vital pulp therapy, medicaments that can promote healing and preserve the vitality of the tooth should be placed after removal of the inflamed pulp. In primary teeth medicaments such as formocresol, mineral trioxide aggregate, zinc oxide eugenol and calcium hydroxide can be used in pulpotomy.

Do expanders hurt more than braces?

Does A Palate Expander Hurt? A palatal expander isn’t the most comfortable orthodontic appliance, however, it isn’t very painful. The most uncomfortable part of the expander process is the orthodontic separators that are placed to make space in between your teeth.

Do expanders make you talk funny?

Altered Speech – When the expander goes in, the patient may talk a little funny and have a lisp. This is only temporary, and will usually last less than a couple days. The more the patient talks, the sooner he or she will get used to it and talk normally again.

How long do you wear reverse pull headgear?

Headgear is typically worn for 12 hours a day. Many patients prefer to wear headgear while they are asleep, and then for a few hours the following day. Headgear treatment takes 1 to 2 years.