Orthognathic & Structural Procedures
Widening an upper jaw that is too narrow to work properly.
A constricted upper jaw contributes to crowding, crossbite, breathing difficulty and imbalance between the arches.
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Widen the Arch. Improve the Fit. Support the Airway.
When the Upper Jaw Is Too Narrow
Palatal expansion is a treatment used to widen the upper jaw when it is too narrow to support proper bite function, tooth alignment, or airway space. A constricted upper jaw may contribute to crowding, crossbite, breathing difficulties, and imbalance between the upper and lower arches. At South Florida Institute of Oral Surgery, palatal expansion is evaluated as part of a broader assessment of jaw development and structural function.
After Growth Has Finished
In some patients, especially those with completed skeletal growth, expansion may require a surgical component to properly widen the upper jaw. This approach allows the jaw to be expanded in a controlled and effective way while improving the foundation for future orthodontic or airway-related treatment.
Imaged and Coordinated
Our surgeons use detailed imaging and individualized planning to determine whether palatal expansion is appropriate and how it fits into the patient’s overall treatment goals. Because these cases often involve coordination with orthodontic treatment, collaboration and planning are key.
Bite, Function and Airway
Palatal expansion can play an important role in improving bite alignment, oral function, and in some cases airway support. At South Florida Institute of Oral Surgery, our goal is to provide treatment that is precise, well coordinated, and designed for long-term structural improvement.