After the Palatal Expander is cemented in place, your orthodontist will give you instructions on how often to turn the screw inside the Palate Expander. Your orthodontist will provide you with a key to turn the screw. You will need to turn the expander yourself or have somebody else turn it for you. This video will illustrate the proper technique for turning the Palatal Expander screw as well as common mistakes in activating the expander.

Some patients will have orthodontic braces at the same time as the palatal expander.  Other patients will get braces after the expansion is completed.  Each patient is different and it depends on several factors including your bite, teeth, and jaw structure