MARPE ( Miniscrew-Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion)
A narrow upper jaw can contribute to a crossbite, crowded teeth, and an uneven relationship between the upper and lower dental arches.
MARPE uses a specialized orthodontic appliance and small miniscrews in the palate to create skeletal expansion in selected older teens and adults.
How MARPE Widens the Upper Jaw
MARPE is used to widen a narrow upper jaw when traditional orthodontic expansion may not provide enough skeletal change. It is most often considered for older teens and adults whose facial bones have reached or are approaching skeletal maturity.
The treatment uses a specialized orthodontic expander supported by small miniscrews that are placed in the palate. The miniscrews anchor the appliance to the upper jaw, allowing expansion forces to act more directly on the bone rather than primarily on the teeth.
The appliance is gradually activated according to your orthodontist’s treatment plan. As the upper jaw widens, a temporary space may develop between the front teeth. Once the planned expansion has been achieved, the appliance remains in place while new bone forms and the jaw stabilizes
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When Upper Jaw Expansion May Be Recommended
MARPE may be recommended when a narrow upper jaw contributes to:
A posterior crossbite
Crowded upper teeth
Limited space for orthodontic alignment
An uneven or asymmetrical bite
A mismatch between the upper and lower dental arches
Coordinated Surgical and Orthodontic Care
Our board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons work with orthodontists throughout Mesa, North Mesa, Queen Creek, Tempe, Show Low, and surrounding communities to support patients who need miniscrew-assisted expansion.
If your orthodontist determines that MARPE may be appropriate for your treatment, they will refer you to our team for evaluation and miniscrew placement. Our surgeons then work closely with your orthodontist to coordinate the surgical and orthodontic phases of care.
The Treatment Process
Treatment requires close coordination between our oral surgery team and your orthodontist. The exact sequence may vary based on the appliance and treatment plan.
1. Orthodontic Evaluation
At your consultation, we use CBCT imaging to evaluate the palate and plan the position of the miniscrews. Your surgeon will also review the planned appliance and coordinate placement with your orthodontist.
2. Appliance and Miniscrew Placement
Your orthodontist generally provides and places the expansion appliance. Our surgical team then places the miniscrews that anchor it to the palate. Local anesthesia is generally all that is needed to keep you comfortable during the procedure.
3. Expansion
Your orthodontist will show you how to activate the appliance gradually. Pressure across the upper jaw is common, and a temporary space may develop between the front teeth as expansion occurs.
4. Stabilization and Orthodontic Treatment
After the desired expansion is reached, the appliance remains in place while new bone forms and the upper jaw stabilizes. Your orthodontist then continues treatment to align the teeth and refine the bite.
5. Miniscrew Removal
Once expansion and stabilization are complete, the miniscrews are removed. This is typically a brief procedure performed with local anesthesia.
What to Expect After Miniscrew Placement
Tenderness, pressure, or mild swelling may occur after the miniscrews are placed. Speech, chewing, and swallowing can also feel different while you adjust to the appliance.
We provide instructions for cleaning around the miniscrews and protecting the palate during early healing. You may need to choose softer foods temporarily and avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that could loosen or damage the appliance.
FAQS About MARPE
Will the gap between my front teeth go away?
A temporary gap between the upper front teeth can develop as the jaw expands. Your orthodontist will address the spacing as orthodontic treatment continues.
Can I eat normally with a palate expander?
You may need softer foods while you adjust to the appliance. Hard, sticky, and chewy foods are generally avoided because they can damage or loosen the expander.
Will a palate expander affect my speech?
Speech may sound different at first because the appliance changes the amount of space available for your tongue. Most patients adapt as they become accustomed to having the appliance in place.
Why do I feel pressure in my nose or cheeks during expansion?
Expansion can create pressure or tightness across the palate, nose, cheeks, or upper teeth. These sensations are commonly reported during activation and generally lessen after each adjustment.
What happens if I forget to turn my expander?
If you miss an activation, do not add extra turns to catch up unless your orthodontist tells you to. Continue according to their instructions or contact their office if you are unsure how to proceed.
Where can I go for MARPE treatment in the Phoenix East Valley?
AZ Max Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons provides MARPE treatment at four Phoenix East Valley locations in Mesa, North Mesa, Queen Creek, and Tempe, as well as our office in Show Low.
Schedule a Consultation
Book a consultation at one of our five locations:
Mesa, North Mesa, Queen Creek, Tempe and Show Low
