About Steven Litwin DDS Expertise I can answer all questions pertaining to dental health for all ages. Topics can include but not be limited to: TMD/migraines; Orthodontics, Implants, cosmetic procedures, crowns, veneers, periodontics (gum treatment), oral surgery, and other areas of interest/concern in the dental field.
Experience I am a practicing dentist in the Baltimore area and have been for over twenty years. I have treated thousands of patients over the years and continue to provide dental health care for them in all aspects of dentistry. I also include non invasive treatment for patients having been diagnosed with TMD and/or chronic headaches/migraines and have had great success without the use of medications.
Organizations Member of The Greater Baltimore Implant Study Club
Education/Credentials I graduated from Georgetown University Dental School in 1987 with a D.D.S. degree. I have completed countless continuing education programs throughout the years in all areas of dentistry.
Past/Present Clients I have patients that travel from out of state to have me provide for their care. Patients come from Pennsylvania, Florida, Delaware, and other areas in addition to the state of Maryland.
Dentistry - My daughter’s palate expander causing a gap
Expert: Steven Litwin DDS - 7/3/2009
Question About three month ago our orthodontist gave my daughter an
orthodontic jaw expander we used it according to his
directions and now a gap is forming between her two front
teeth. Does this mean we’re expanding the jaw too quickly or
did we make a mistake choosing this treatment? It seems like
this appliance is only creating a problem. I’m really confused
can you help?
Answer Hi Joseph,
Dont panic everything is going the way its supposed to. When the maxilla is expanded what is happening is that the bones are being pushed out laterally. When this happens the sutures in between the bone plates of the maxilla are stretched so that new bone can then fill in. When these sutures are stretched the front two teeth drift away from each other each following one of the bone plates. Eventually the teeth migrate back towards each other and the space closes. So Joseph, what is happening is perfectly normal and means that the expander is doing what it is supposed to do. The only mistake made is that the orthodontist did not tell you to expect this. I too have made this mistake once lol and ever since then I always tell parents what to expect as this can be disconcerting to a parent who is not prepared. Hope this helps with alleviating your concerns and wish you the best of luck.
