Dr. White may recommend a rapid palatal expander for cooperative children who have crossbites or severely crowed primary teeth. An acrylic expander is cemented to the top posterior teeth and a special key is used to expand the appliance. Dr. White will monitor the expansion frequently. The length of treatment Is about eight months, at which time the appliance is removed and the patient is allowed to grow. A few patients do not require orthodontics, and those that do can often be treated without permanent extractions.