MARPE Expansion

What is MARPE?

MARPE stands for Miniscrew-Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion. It's a revolutionary technique that allows adults to achieve palatal expansion without the need for invasive jaw surgery.

In children and teens, the palatal suture (the seam in the middle of the roof of the mouth) is still open and can be expanded with traditional expanders. In adults, this suture has fused, making expansion much more difficult. MARPE uses small temporary anchor screws (TADs) to apply force directly to the bone, allowing the suture to separate and the palate to widen — even in adults.

Benefits of MARPE

How Does MARPE Work?

1. Consultation & Planning: We take a 3D CBCT scan to evaluate bone density and plan TAD placement
2. TAD Placement: Four small miniscrews are placed in the palate under local anesthesia (minimally invasive)
3. Expander Attached: A custom expander is connected to the TADs
4. Activation: You'll turn the expander daily as prescribed (typically 1-2 turns per day)
5. Expansion: Over several weeks, the palate gradually widens
6. Stabilization: The expander stays in place for several months while new bone fills the gap

Who is a Candidate for MARPE?

MARPE may be right for you if:

• You're an adult with a narrow palate
• You have a crossbite that traditional orthodontics can't fully correct
• You have crowding and need more arch space
• You have breathing issues related to narrow airways
• You want to avoid surgical palate expansion

What to Expect

The expansion process typically takes 2-4 weeks of active turning. Most patients experience some pressure during expansion, but significant pain is uncommon. You may notice:

• A gap developing between your front teeth (this is normal and will be closed with braces or aligners)
• Your face may feel wider or fuller
• Improved nasal breathing as expansion progresses