Get off orthadontist expander early??????

I have one of the orthadontist expander, similar to this one http://www.orthodontics.org/expander.jpg


except mine has huge plastic covers over all three of my molars on both sides of my mouth. I have been having some problems with it, such as, it has been cutting into my tongue severly, I think that I lost one of my baby molars inside the unremovable plastic covers, and I have another baby tooth (I kept my teeth in way longer than I should have) that is loose, but it has glue from the covers on it. My dad is also going to suggest that it come off early, but he doesnt really know much about teeth. Do you think my orthadontist will take my expander off early?

Get off orthadontist expander early??????
You have raised an excellent question and it is a dilemma when a bonded hyrax (that is what you have) is bonded to baby teeth and the teeth are exfoliating (coming out).





The bonded hyrax is now preventing the permanent teeth from erupting since you are shedding the primary teeth. You and your parents should speak to the orthodontist. It does sound like this appliance needs to be removed.





However, it will likely need to be replaced with another to hold the expansion that has been gained. A transpalatal arch or nance are holding appliances or a banded hyrax with bands on molars only if expansion is still needed. Attached is a link showing some of these appliances.
Reply:Expanders are put on for a reason, there is not enough room in your mouth. I would not recommend getting it off early if it is not in the best interest of your orthodontist. They are the boss, they went to school for 10+ years and they are trying to help your smile look beautiful.


I know they can be uncomfortable but it is making the treatment you have in the future be a more pleasurable one. I know it is hard not to play with a funny appliance in your mouth, but try and keep your tongue away from that area and this will keep the trauma to your tongue to a minimum.