Palatal Expansion for Better Breathing in San Bernardino, CA
Good sleep starts with room to breathe. At Inland Dental Center San Bernardino, we now offer a clear, removable palatal expander from Glidewell for patients with a narrow upper jaw. It looks much like a clear aligner, and it gently widens your upper arch to create more space for your teeth, tongue and airway.
Signs Your Upper Jaw May Be Too Narrow
Many people live with a narrow palate for years without knowing it. Common clues include:
- Loud or frequent snoring
- Sleeping with your mouth open
- Feeling tired even after a full night’s sleep
- Teeth that overlap, crowd or cross over when you bite
- Clenching or grinding at night
We can check for these signs during a routine visit or a dedicated consultation.
A Clear, Comfortable Alternative to Traditional Expanders
Traditional palatal expanders are metal appliances cemented to the back teeth. Our clear expander is different:
- Removable: Take it out to eat, brush and floss.
- Discreet: Clear material that’s hard to notice when you talk or smile.
- Custom-made: Designed from a digital scan of your mouth, with no messy impressions.
- Gradual: Each tray moves your arch a small, planned amount.
When expansion is done, many patients continue with Glidewell Clear Aligners to straighten their teeth.
Remote Monitoring That Saves You Time
This treatment is powered by ProMonitoring. You’ll snap quick scans with your smartphone twice a month. AI technology reviews each scan for progress, fit and hygiene, and our team follows up when needed. You spend less time in the waiting room and more time living your life.
Why Patients Choose Palatal Expansion
A wider upper arch can:
- Open up more space for the tongue and airway
- Help reduce snoring and mouth breathing for some patients
- Relieve crowding, often without extractions
- Broaden the smile for a fuller, more balanced look
Sleep Apnea and Your Airway
Only a physician can diagnose sleep apnea, typically through a sleep study. Our dentists screen for signs of sleep-disordered breathing and coordinate with your doctor. Palatal expansion may be one helpful piece of your plan, alongside the treatment your physician recommends. For complex cases, we can also coordinate care through our partners at Arrowhead Dental Specialties.
Your Treatment Step by Step
- Screening and scan: We discuss your sleep and breathing and take a 3D digital scan.
- Treatment design: Your expander is planned and made for your mouth.
- Wear and scan: You wear your trays and send ProMonitoring scans from home.
- Office visits as needed: We see you in person only when your progress calls for it.
- Finish strong: We move on to aligners or a retainer to hold your results.
Palatal Expander FAQs
Can adults get a palatal expander?
Yes, as we treat both adults and teens. In adults, removable expanders mostly widen the upper arch of teeth. We’ll explain what’s realistic for you at your consultation.
How many hours a day do I wear a palatal expander?
Patients wear the trays 24 hours a day, taking them out only for meals.
Is palatal expansion uncomfortable?
Expect mild pressure when you switch to a new tray. It usually fades within a couple of days.
Will palatal expansion stop my snoring?
Results vary. Some patients notice less snoring, and we’ll work with your physician if sleep apnea is a concern.
How do I pay for palatal expansion treatment?
We accept many insurance plans and offer Cherry Financing and a VIP Membership Plan.
Snoring, mouth breathing or a narrow smile?
Contact Inland Dental Center with any questions or to make an appointment!
Ready to breathe easier? Call Inland Dental Center San Bernardino at IDC San Bernardino Phone Number (909) 384-1111 or book online. Visit us at 362 E. Vanderbilt Way. We proudly serve San Bernardino, Loma Linda, Colton, Redlands and the greater Inland Empire.