A narrow upper jaw can affect how the upper and lower teeth fit together and may leave too little room to align the teeth. MARPE uses a specialized orthodontic expander supported by small screws in the palate to apply expansion force more directly to the upper jaw.
At Legacy Surgery, we work closely with local orthodontists to plan and place the miniscrews that support the appliance.
What Is MARPE?
Miniscrew-assisted rapid palatal expansion is an orthodontic treatment used to widen a narrow upper jaw. A specialized expander is supported by small screws placed in the roof of the mouth, creating stable anchor points in the bone. This allows the appliance to widen the upper jaw without relying mainly on the teeth for support.
Why This Approach Is Used in Orthodontics
This approach can support orthodontic treatment when more width is needed across the upper jaw.
It may help:
- Correct a crossbite caused by a narrow upper jaw
- Create additional space for crowded teeth
- Improve how the upper and lower teeth fit together
- Expand the jaw while limiting unwanted pressure on the teeth
This approach is often used for older teens and adults when traditional tooth-supported expansion may be less predictable. Your orthodontist will determine whether it is appropriate for your treatment plan and coordinate with Dr. Kesecker for miniscrew placement.
What to Expect During MARPE Placement
Before placement, X-rays or 3D imaging may be used to plan the position of the miniscrews. Dr. Kesecker coordinates with your orthodontist based on the design of your appliance and treatment plan.
On the day of the procedure:
- The roof of your mouth is numbed with a local anesthetic
- The miniscrews are placed through the appliance and into the bone
- The screws are checked to make sure they are stable
- No incisions or stitches are typically required
- Most patients feel pressure rather than pain during placement
Placement is typically well tolerated with local anesthesia. For patients who feel anxious or prefer additional support, sedation options may be available.
Post-Procedure Care
Proper care after miniscrew placement can help reduce irritation and keep the area around the appliance clean. Follow any specific instructions provided by our team.
First 24 Hours:
- Avoid touching the miniscrews or appliance with your tongue or fingers.
- Choose soft foods and avoid anything hard, crunchy, or sticky.
- Take over-the-counter pain medication as directed for mild soreness.
- Rinse gently with warm salt water or a recommended mouthwash.
- Avoid strenuous activity for the remainder of the day.
Ongoing Care:
- Gently brush around the appliance and miniscrews to prevent food and plaque buildup.
- Use any recommended rinse as directed.
- Avoid hard or sticky foods that could place unnecessary pressure on the appliance.
- Follow your orthodontist’s instructions for activating and caring for the expander.
Expansion and Follow-Up
Your orthodontist will provide instructions for activating the expander and monitor your progress throughout treatment. Active expansion usually takes several weeks, followed by a period of stabilization before the appliance is removed.
Coordinated Care With Local Orthodontists
Dr. Kesecker works with orthodontists throughout the Staunton and Harrisonburg areas to provide the surgical portion of MARPE treatment. Our team works directly with your orthodontist to coordinate miniscrew placement with the overall treatment plan.
MARPE Placement in the Shenandoah Valley
Legacy Surgery provides MARPE miniscrew placement for patients from Staunton, Harrisonburg, and surrounding Shenandoah Valley communities, including Waynesboro, Bridgewater, Dayton, and nearby areas. Dr. Kesecker works with your orthodontist to coordinate the surgical portion of your treatment.
If your orthodontist has recommended MARPE, schedule a consultation with Legacy Surgery to discuss miniscrew placement and the next steps in your treatment.
FAQs
Will it cause a gap between my front teeth?
A space between the upper front teeth can develop as the upper jaw expands. This is a common part of treatment, and your orthodontist will manage the position of the teeth as treatment continues.
Will the device affect my speech?
The appliance may temporarily affect speech while your tongue adjusts to having something new in the roof of your mouth. This generally improves as you become accustomed to the expander.
How are the screws removed?
Once the expansion and retention stages are complete, the miniscrews can be backed out with a small instrument. Removal is generally brief, and the small openings in the gum tissue usually close without stitches.
What are the possible risks?
Risks can include irritation, a loose miniscrew, unwanted dental or gum changes, uneven expansion, or insufficient expansion. Follow-up helps the treatment team identify problems early.