Quad Helix Appliance: How It Works and How to Care for It

A quad helix is a common appliance for widening the upper arch. If your child has been fitted with one, this guide explains how it works and how to care for it at home.

What Is a Quad Helix?

A quad helix is a custom-fit orthodontic appliance for the upper teeth that is used to expand the palate. It widens the arch of the mouth to make room for crowded teeth, correct a posterior crossbite or help stop thumb sucking.

How Does a Quad Helix Expander Work?

The quad helix is cemented to bands on the six-year molars. We adjust it every 4 to 6 weeks until the right amount of expansion is reached. After that, the appliance stays in for about three more months to hold the new width before it is removed. Learn more about how palatal expanders work.

What Does a Quad Helix Feel Like?

Teeth may feel sore at first. You might also notice extra saliva and a slight change in speech. Speaking out loud as much as possible during the first couple of days helps your tongue get used to the appliance, and speech usually returns to normal within a few days. If needed, Advil or Tylenol can ease soreness, usually for only a day or two.

Parts of the appliance or its bands may rub your cheeks or tongue at first. Orthodontic wax or wet cotton balls can cushion those spots, and warm salt water rinses or a numbing gel such as Orabase can help sore areas feel better.

Foods to Avoid with a Quad Helix

• Sticky foods such as taffy, caramels, gummy candies, Starburst, Skittles and gum can loosen the appliance.
• Hard foods such as ice, nuts and hard candy can break it.

How Do I Clean My Quad Helix?

Brush after every meal, with an adult’s help for younger children. Carefully brush around and under the appliance to keep it and the teeth clean and free from cavities.

What If My Quad Helix Feels Loose or Breaks?

You will usually be able to tell if the appliance becomes loose. Call our office right away so we can re-cement it. A loose appliance can irritate the gums and trap food underneath, which raises the risk of cavities. Breakage is uncommon, but if it happens, call us to schedule a repair or replacement. A replacement fee applies.