Invisalign Palatal Expander

The Invisalign Palatal Expander widens a narrow upper jaw with custom 3D-printed appliances instead of a fixed metal device. Align Technology calls it the only FDA-cleared removable palatal expander shown in clinical study to match traditional expanders’ effectiveness.

Why some children need expansion

A narrow upper jaw can cause crowding, crossbites, and an unbalanced bite. Expanding while a child is still growing can:

• Create room for permanent teeth
• Improve arch width and bite relationships
• Correct crossbites and reduce crowding
• Support better jaw development
• Reduce the need for more invasive treatment later

Not every child needs expansion — we evaluate whether the upper jaw is truly narrow and whether expansion will meaningfully help.

How it’s different

Traditional expanders are metal, fixed to the teeth, and turned with a key. The Invisalign Palatal Expander is a custom digital series, each appliance producing small, precise movement.

• Removable for brushing, flossing, and meals
• No metal, wires, or key
• Custom-fit and low-profile
• Kids can insert and remove it themselves
• Fewer broken-appliance visits

Why Bella Smile is different

Expansion isn’t just about width. We assess how much is needed, where, and how it fits your child’s growth, eruption, and bite — customizing amount and timing rather than using one protocol for every patient. An orthodontist sees your child at every visit.

After expansion

Expansion is often one part of Phase One. Some kids move into Invisalign First next; others just need monitoring. We include growth and eruption checks between Phase One and Phase Two to guide next steps.

Is it right for my child?

It depends on age, growth, arch width, and bite. A complimentary consultation includes photos, X-rays if needed, and an iTero digital scan. We’ll tell you whether your child needs expansion — and whether a removable Invisalign Palatal Expander or a traditional expander is the better fit.

Ready when you are

Complimentary consultations at both San Francisco locations. We’ll tell you what your child needs and why.