Purpose of Maxillary Expansion

Maxillary expansion is performed when the upper jaw is horizontally narrower compared to the lower jaw. This procedure is based on the principle of splitting the upper jaw skeletally into two equal parts through the “midpalatal suture” and gradually widening the gap.

Treatment Process and Aftercare

The separated suture area re-ossifies in approximately 3 months. Thus, a healthy and permanent orthopedic maxillary expansion is achieved.

Benefits of Maxillary Expansion

With maxillary expansion:

• The relationship between the teeth is corrected,

• The patient’s facial appearance is aesthetically improved,

• Nasal breathing capacity is increased.

Maxillary Expansion in Children and Adolescents

In children and adolescents, maxillary expansion can be performed effectively and comfortably thanks to the flexibility of their bone structure. Generally, successful results are achieved in a short time with fixed appliances.

New Approaches in Adults

In adult patients who have completed their growth and development, the bones of the upper jaw are more rigid and fused, making the expansion process more challenging and requiring additional support.

In the past, in severe narrowing cases among adults:

• Surgically Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion (SARPE) was performed under general anesthesia.

However, with technological advancements today:

• The MARPE (Mini-implant Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion) method, performed using small screws placed in the palatal vault,

has made non-surgical, effective, and stable maxillary expansion possible.