MASPE Expander – Post Delivery Instructions

First 48 Hours

  • Mild pressure/soreness is normal – Take ibuprofen 400–800 mg every 8 hours as needed (or acetaminophen if you have ibuprofen allergy or contraindication).*
  • Speech may sound “lispy” – this usually improves with time.
  • Increased saliva – this typically reduces as your body gets adjusted to the new appliance.

1. Palatal Expansion (MASPE)

Follow Dr. Adams’ exact schedule. Most patients start with:

1 turn every OTHER day

How to Turn

  1. Insert wrench onto center of appliance at the roof of your mouth.
  2. Turn downward until the wrench touches your lower teeththat’s 1 full turn (~1/12 mm).
  3. Remove wrench straight out.

NEVER turn more often than instructed.


Notify Us Immediately If:

  • You feel pain when turning
  • A space opens between front teeth that floss passes through easily (no rubbing)
  • Turns feel harder than usual
  • You have any questions or concerns — we’re here to help!

2. Starting & Changing SPARK Clear Aligners

(Only begin when Dr. Adams says “GO”)

RuleDetails
Wear Time22+ hours/day — remove only to eat/drink
Change ScheduleEvery 7 days (or as Dr. Adams directs)
ScanningScan weekly using Dental Monitoring app — WAIT FOR “APPROVED” before changing trays
Fit IssuesIf tray feels tight, loose, or painfulcontact us same day
Keep Prior TraysAlways save the last 2 trays (in case we need to step back)
DrinksOnly water with trays in. Remove for all food/drinks (except water). Rinse mouth before re-inserting.
CleaningUse retainer tablets or sonic cleaner daily

3. Dental Monitoring – Remote Scanning

  1. Download the Dental Monitoring app (iOS/Android)
  2. Activate your account using the text/email link we send
  3. Scan weekly on your assigned day/time
  4. Wait for GREEN “APPROVED” before advancing to next tray

4. Oral Hygiene (Non-Negotiable)

TaskFrequency
Waterpik MASPE ApplianceAfter every meal (minimum 3×/day)
Brush teeth & Floss2×/day minimum (soft brush around MASPE)
MouthwashAs directed by regular dentist (who does cleaning)
Regular dentistCleanings every 6 months (or as advised)

5. Emergency? Call or Text SAME DAY

Office: 703.712.1053 Email photos to: tmjsleepbreathe@gmail.com After-Hours: Text 240.277.2627

Red Flags:

  • Pain with turning
  • Tray won’t seat fully
  • Lost/broken wrench
  • Bleeding, swelling, sores >3 days

We’re thrilled to guide you through MASPE expansion with SPARK clear aligners! Share progress photos or wins anytime — it brightens our day! 😊

*Please inform our office if you have any drug allergies and/or Medical conditions that prevent NSAID use (e.g., ulcers, kidney issues, blood thinners.