Pay special attention to cleaning the central gears, screws, and edges of the expander and to places where the expander touches or covers your gum line.
Be as consistent as possible. If you find that your schedule is likely to be interrupted, or if you foresee the need to delay turning, always check with your orthodontist first.
If the key doesn’t have a safety string, secure the end with a long string or length of dental floss, which will allow for easy retrieval if you drop the key in your or your child’s mouth.
If you are performing this on yourself, do this in front of a mirror in a well lit room. If you are performing this on a child or young person, have them lay down and open their mouth as wide as possible to prevent gagging in case you accidentally touch their uvula. Make sure you have enough light to see clearly - use a flashlight if needed.
Keep a list of concerns as they occur for convenience.
You can also regularly gargle with lightly salted tepid water to relieve occasional soreness and pain.
