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What's behind the uptick in orthodontic palate expanders?

There appears to be an uptick in the use of orthodontic palate expanders in young kids. But there are questions about whether the devices are necessary or just another body modification for aesthetic purposes, and a way to increase profits for orthodontists.

Daniel Engber wrote about the phenomenon in The Atlantic and joins host Robin Young with more.

This article was originally published on WBUR.org.

Copyright 2026 WBUR

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