Maxillary Skeletal Expansion (MSE) | MARPE

Maxillary skeletal expansion (MSE) is a type of orthodontic treatment that involves widening the upper jaw (maxilla) by separating the two halves of the bone at the midline. The procedure is usually performed on adolescents or adults who have a narrow or constricted upper jaw, which can cause problems with breathing, speech, chewing, and facial appearance.

MSE is typically done using a device called a palatal expander, which is attached to the upper teeth and anchored to the palatal bone with small screws, and is gradually widened over a period of several weeks or months. The expander puts gentle pressure on the midline suture, causing it to gradually separate and creating more space in the upper jaw.

MSE has gained popularity recently because it can increase the width of the upper jaw without the need for surgery (SARPE). This can be particularly beneficial for patients who have a skeletal discrepancy between their upper and lower jaws, as it can help to improve the bite and reduce the risk of jaw joint (TMJ ) problems.

MSE is usually done in conjunction with braces or other orthodontic appliances to help align the teeth and improve overall oral function and appearance. It is important to note that MSE should only be performed by a qualified orthodontist and surgeon who have experience with this technique.

There is a chance that this non-invasive procedure may not work, and the only option at that point is to undergo a surgical procedure to widen the palate (SARPE). Your orthodontist and surgeon will discuss your options with you and empower you to make the decision that is right for you.