The Hyrax appliance is used to expand your upper jaw. This is a metal appliance with a screw in the center that expands as it turns and is glued to the back teeth.
You will use a key to turn the appliance at home and will be shown how to complete the turns at your first visit. You may feel pressure in your teeth, upper jaw or sinus area after turning. You may develop a gap between the front teeth which will be closed by braces or Invisalign.
The frequency of turns will be determined by your doctor. Talking and swallowing may be difficult at first but will resolve with time. Avoid sticky and hard foods.