An upper palate expander is an orthodontic appliance used to widen a narrow upper jaw. An expander can solve many orthodontic problems, such as crossbite, deep bite, dental crowding and impacted teeth; it can even help younger patients with sleep apnea, snoring, allergies and asthma. In many cases, an expander can prevent the need for extraction of permanent teeth. The expander is attached to the molar teeth and rests on the roof of the mouth. At Kirby Nelson Orthodontics, we will teach you how to activate the appliance at home, and we will monitor the amount of expansion at each appointment.