Your Rapid Palatal Expander (RPE)

An RPE is an appliance custom-designed to expand your upper jaw.

For the appliance to work, it must be activated according to Dr. Weiss' instructions.

Insert the key into the hole, and then steadily push the key from the front towards the back of the mouth until you see a new hole appear. Remove the key in a downwards and backwards direction so that you don't inadvertently un-turn the screw. If the screw is unturned, you won't be able to insert the key at the next activation.

Points to Remember

• As the arch expands, you will feel some pressure on the teeth, along the bridge of the nose, or in the temple area. This is normal. You can take some Tylenol or Advil as needed.
• As a result of your activations, you may see a space develop between your two front teeth. This is a good sign! The space will close once the expander is no longer activated. You may also notice a change in your speech for a while. Speak slowly and distinctly until your tongue adapts to the change. Reading aloud often helps to speed up the process.
• Brush your teeth as you usually do. Then use the Sulcabrush which we have given you to specifically clean the wires, and the ledges where the acrylic meets your gums and palate.
• Please be careful to avoid, sticky or chewy foods, which could loosen your RPE.
• If your RPE gets loose, please call us immediately! We want to see you as soon as possible so that the expansion does not relapse.
• After the correct amount of expansion has been achieved, Dr. Weiss will tell you to stop activating the appliance. The RPE will then be secured and continue to stay in your mouth for approximately 3-6 months. If the RPE is removed too soon, your upper arch will lose the expansion.