The Nitanium Palatal Expander2 (NPE2) is a fixed/removable nickel titanium appliance attached to molar bands via horizontal lingual sheaths. The main body wire -- fabricated from heat activated, nickel titanium wire with shape memory -- is formed to a set shape that it maintains when heated above its thermal transition temperature of 94 degrees Fahrenheit. The appliance comes pre-fabricated in several sizes. The appropriate size for a patient is determined by comparing measurement of the patient’s existing arch width to the ideal arch width chosen as your treatment goal.

Clinically, before appliance delivery, the NPE2 is chilled and becomes extremely flexible and easy to insert. As the mouth begins to warm the appliance, the body wire becomes stiffer as shape memory is restored. This exerts a continuous low force on the teeth and mid-palatal suture to produce expansion. Appliance adjustment of the body wire is not necessary, but the extension arms can be adjusted to provide a differential amount of expansion in the bicuspid region (if needed). Note: Initially, a patient may experience slight pressure, which can be relieved by sipping a cold fluid or sucking on an ice cube. This feature makes the appliance very “patient friendly” because it allows mitigation of the pressure response.