Which is better: palette expander or tooth extraction

Question

if a kid has crowded teeth, which is better: palette expander or tooth extraction for orthodontia and why. Does either change the structure of the jaw or outward facial features

Answer 1

Well, I had to do both. I had the expander and then took out 4 teeth and then got braces. If you have the choice of doing one or the other, go for the tooth extraction. The expander made me miserable. It's so painful and annoying to have in your mouth. It takes up half your mouth and it's hard to eat or even breathe. And you have to tighten it every night which really hurts. I hated it.

Answer 2

Generally, I would prefer a palate expander.  Oftentimes extracting teeth for ortho purposes can make the face look smaller or "collapsed".  If the orthodontist is willing to do palatal expansion, that is a good sign, because although it it more difficult, it usually will have a better result.