Assessment and planning
Before treatment begins, the orthodontist evaluates jaw anatomy, the degree of maxillary constriction, and the child’s growth stage. Based on this assessment, an individualized treatment plan is developed.
HAAS (Marco Rossa) Appliance for Children
The HAAS appliance is used in pediatric orthodontics to guide upper jaw expansion during active growth. It helps create adequate space for proper dental arch development and balanced bite formation.
At DentalDate, the HAAS appliance is individually planned as part of a structured orthodontic approach focused on healthy craniofacial development.
HAAS Appliance — Space for Healthy Growth
The HAAS appliance is designed to support healthy upper jaw development while a child is still growing. Rather than focusing on tooth movement alone, it works by creating the necessary space for the jaws to develop in a more balanced and harmonious way.
During childhood, the structures of the upper jaw are flexible and responsive to guided orthodontic support. The HAAS appliance takes advantage of this growth phase, allowing expansion to occur gradually and in alignment with natural developmental processes. This approach helps establish proper proportions between the jaws, which is essential for stable bite formation.
Once in place, the appliance works continuously and does not rely on active participation from the child. Progress is monitored by the orthodontist, who evaluates how the jaws respond over time and ensures that development remains controlled and predictable.
By addressing jaw width at the right stage, the HAAS appliance helps lay a solid foundation for future orthodontic care and long-term bite stability, rather than correcting structural limitations later on.
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When a HAAS Appliance Is Truly Needed
A HAAS appliance is prescribed when orthodontic issues are caused by insufficient upper jaw development, already affecting bite formation, breathing, or tooth eruption. The goal is to address the underlying cause, not just visible symptoms.
A narrow upper jaw
Reduced maxillary width limits proper alignment of the dental arches and disrupts bite balance.
Dental crowding due to lack of space
Permanent teeth erupt unevenly or overlap not because of tooth size, but because the jaw is too narrow.
Crossbite
Upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth — a clear indication of transverse maxillary deficiency.
Mouth breathing
Narrow upper jaw development is often associated with reduced nasal airway space, contributing to habitual mouth breathing.
Abnormal bite development during growth
Jaw size discrepancies, asymmetry, or growth patterns that are likely to worsen over time without intervention.
Risk of complex orthodontic treatment later on
Without early expansion, future correction may require more invasive or prolonged treatment.
Why is it important to start treatment on time?
Facial and jaw growth in children follows specific developmental phases, during which the upper jaw remains especially responsive to orthodontic guidance. These windows of growth offer a unique opportunity for effective and physiological correction.
When maxillary constriction is left unaddressed during active growth, the body gradually adapts to the altered anatomy. Over time, this adaptation can make future correction more complex and less predictable.
Early expansion helps to:
- work with natural bone growth rather than against mature skeletal resistance
- reduce the risk of space deficiency for permanent teeth
- influence bite development before imbalances become stable
- minimize the need for more invasive orthodontic approaches later on
As growth potential decreases with age, treatment often shifts from guiding development to compensating for established structural changes. Addressing the issue at the right time allows orthodontic care to remain more physiological and efficient.
Advantages of Treatment at DentalDate
Treatment at DentalDate is designed to be not only effective, but also calm and comfortable for the child, while remaining clear and transparent for parents. We focus not only on the outcome, but on how each stage of treatment is carried out.
Accurate diagnosis before treatment begins
Before recommending a functional appliance, we perform a comprehensive assessment of growth patterns, jaw structure, and functional factors to determine whether this approach is truly suitable for the individual child.
High level of comfort for the child
The appliance is precisely adapted to the anatomy of the palate and teeth, reducing the sensation of a foreign object and allowing for a smoother adaptation period.
Advanced digital technologies
Digital planning and monitoring protocols allow us to anticipate treatment progress and minimize the risk of inaccuracies throughout the process.
Regular monitoring and timely adjustments
Scheduled follow-up visits enable the orthodontist to evaluate jaw response and adjust the treatment plan when necessary, preventing excessive load or delayed progress.
Gentle action without excessive pressure on teeth
The appliance works primarily with skeletal structures rather than relying on force applied to the teeth. This is especially important during the mixed dentition stage and helps preserve dental health.
Focus on long-term stability
Treatment is planned as part of a broader strategy for developing a stable and balanced bite, rather than as an isolated intervention.
Designed With Your Child in Mind
DentalDate provides orthodontic care that prioritizes growth, comfort, and long-term balance — creating a foundation for healthy development rather than short-term correction.
Choice of color
The child can choose a color they find visually pleasant, which helps reduce initial hesitation and makes the adaptation process feel calmer and more natural.
Decorative elements
Visual details or patterns allow the appliance to feel less clinical and more child-friendly.
Individual appearance
A non-standard, personalized design helps children feel more comfortable and confident during treatment.
Increased motivation to wear the appliance
When children participate in the design process, they are more likely to follow recommendations consistently.
Positive treatment experience
Thoughtful design details help the child feel more relaxed during treatment and support a calmer, more trusting attitude toward orthodontic care.
Calm Treatment, Step by Step
01
02
Custom appliance fabrication
The HAAS appliance is created specifically for the child, taking into account the shape of the palate and dental structure. This precision supports proper fit and smoother adaptation.
03
Appliance placement
Once ready, the appliance is securely fitted in the mouth. After placement, the child can continue daily activities without the need for active involvement in managing the appliance.
04
Gradual activation phase
Expansion is carried out progressively according to the orthodontist’s instructions. Parents receive clear guidance and remain in communication with the doctor throughout this phase.
05
Ongoing monitoring
Regular follow-up visits allow the orthodontist to assess jaw response and make adjustments if necessary, ensuring controlled and predictable progress.
06
Stabilization period
After the desired expansion is achieved, the appliance remains in place for a stabilization phase, allowing the skeletal changes to consolidate and adapt.
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Reviews
"My child's case turned out to be quite complicated and required important steps before braces — including palate work. At that moment I felt we were in the right hands. My child actually enjoys visits to the doctor and the results are already visible."
Marina Iris
"Many thanks for the professionalism and careful approach. They offered a treatment solution for my daughter when other clinics simply told us to wait. We are so glad we came here."
Anastasia Davydova
"Our daughter was recommended a HAAS appliance for palatal expansion and the team were amazing at explaining exactly how it works and what to expect month by month. She adapted incredibly quickly and her bite is already looking so much better."
Rachel Simmons
"The orthodontist spotted that my son needed palatal expansion before any further treatment. She explained everything using 3D scans — really appreciated the thorough diagnostic approach rather than rushing straight to braces. We feel completely confident in the treatment plan.""
Kevin Murray
"My 8-year-old had the HAAS appliance fitted and I was nervous about how she would cope. The doctor was brilliant with her — patient, fun, and very clear."
Elena Borisova
Video Reviews
Answers to Common Parent Questions
At what age can the HAAS appliance be used?
The HAAS appliance is most commonly used during the mixed dentition stage, typically between 7 and 10 years of age, when the upper jaw bones are most responsive to expansion. In certain cases, treatment may begin earlier if significant narrowing is present and timely intervention is required.
Which teeth is the appliance attached to?
The appliance is usually anchored to the primary (baby) teeth. This allows the orthodontist to influence the growth of the upper jaw bones without placing unnecessary load on the developing permanent teeth.
Is treatment with the HAAS appliance painful?
Treatment is generally not painful. During the first few days, the child may experience a sensation of pressure as part of the adaptation process. These sensations typically resolve quickly and do not require pain medication.
How long does the active expansion phase last?
The active expansion phase usually lasts around two weeks on average. Exact timing is determined individually and depends on the clinical goal and how the jaw responds to treatment.
How often is the appliance activated?
Activation is typically performed twice a day — in the morning and in the evening, according to the orthodontist’s prescribed schedule. Parents receive clear instructions and the process is closely monitored by the doctor.
Can the child remove the appliance on their own?
No. The HAAS appliance is a fixed (non-removable) device. This eliminates the risk of loss, incorrect use, or interruptions in treatment.
Does the appliance affect speech or oral sensations?
At the beginning of treatment, temporary changes in speech and a foreign-body sensation may occur. As the child adapts, these effects usually decrease and do not interfere with everyday communication.
How should teeth and the appliance be cared for?
Good oral hygiene is especially important during treatment and includes:
- regular tooth brushing
- thorough cleaning around the appliance
- use of an irrigator when recommended
Parents and children receive detailed guidance on proper care to help reduce the risk of plaque buildup and gum irritation.
- regular tooth brushing
- thorough cleaning around the appliance
- use of an irrigator when recommended
Parents and children receive detailed guidance on proper care to help reduce the risk of plaque buildup and gum irritation.
Will the appliance affect permanent teeth?
The HAAS appliance does not move teeth directly. Its primary effect is on the skeletal structures of the upper jaw, creating more favorable conditions for the proper eruption and alignment of permanent teeth.
