What is the average age of a child when getting a palate expander?

Ages 7-12: The mid palatal suture, where the two halfs of our palate fuse toghether, usually solidifies around ages 9- 12. In order for a palatal expander to work appropriately, this suture must not be fused. As every child is different, your orthodontist should be able to determine if your child could benefit from such an expander.

No average age: There is no average age for getting a palate expander. It should be done while a child is growing, before the bones fuse and growth ceases. It can be done even in small children when necessary, but usually in kids between about ages 6 and 12. It does not work in older kids who have completed their growth spurt or in adults.

Depends on need: There is no hard and fast rule and depends on the amount needed. However, if determined that your child would benefit after a proper evaluation and diagnosis, the typical age of placement is between 7 and 14. Some kids need multiple rounds of expansion to correct significant issues, and these often will begin earlier.

Better young: The younger the better. The sooner transverse width can be fixed the better your child's facial growth. Expanding narrow upper jaw corrects posterior cross bites and allows more room for the the permanent teeth that started developing before your child was born. Go for it!