What is MARPE?
MARPE (Miniscrew-Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion) is an advanced, non-surgical orthodontic treatment that widens a narrow upper jaw (maxilla) in teens and adults. Unlike traditional palatal expanders that rely on teeth for anchorage, MARPE uses tiny screws placed directly into the bone of the palate to achieve true skeletal expansion.
At The Art of Braces in Las Vegas, NV, board-certified orthodontist Dr. Saoly Benson offers MARPE as a solution for patients who would otherwise need jaw surgery to correct a narrow palate. This groundbreaking treatment can create significant skeletal expansion, improving bite alignment, relieving teeth crowding, and enhancing nasal breathing.
How Does MARPE Work?
MARPE uses four small temporary anchorage devices (TADs) or miniscrews that are placed into the palatal bone. These screws provide direct bone anchorage for the expansion appliance, allowing it to separate the midpalatal suture even in older teens and adults whose suture has begun to fuse.
The expansion appliance is activated daily by turning a small screw, gradually widening the palate over several weeks. Because the force is applied directly to the bone rather than through the teeth, MARPE achieves true skeletal expansion with minimal dental tipping.
Benefits of MARPE
- Non-Surgical: Avoids the need for surgically-assisted rapid palatal expansion (SARPE)
- Skeletal Expansion: Achieves true bone expansion, not just dental movement
- Improved Breathing: Widens the nasal passages, often improving nasal airflow
- Sleep Apnea Benefits: May help reduce symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea
- Relieves Crowding: Creates space for proper tooth alignment
- Better Bite: Corrects crossbites and creates a wider, more aesthetic smile
- Works for Adults: Effective even when the palatal suture has begun to fuse
Who Is a Candidate for MARPE?
MARPE is ideal for teens and adults with a narrow upper jaw who need skeletal expansion. Candidates typically have:
- A narrow palate with crowded teeth
- Posterior crossbite (upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth)
- Nasal breathing difficulties
- Symptoms of sleep apnea related to a narrow airway
- Need for significant expansion that traditional expanders cannot achieve
During your consultation, Dr. Benson will evaluate your jaw structure using 3D CBCT imaging to determine if MARPE is the right treatment for you.
What to Expect
The MARPE procedure begins with the placement of four small miniscrews into the palatal bone. This is done under local anesthesia and is well-tolerated by most patients. The expansion appliance is then attached to these screws.
You'll activate the appliance daily at home by turning a small screw. Most patients complete the active expansion phase in 2-4 weeks. After the desired expansion is achieved, the appliance remains in place for several months to allow the bone to consolidate and stabilize.
Recovery and Results
Most patients experience mild pressure during the expansion process, similar to the feeling after a regular orthodontic adjustment. You may notice a temporary gap forming between your front teeth – this is normal and indicates that the palate is expanding. This gap will be closed during your subsequent orthodontic treatment.
After the expansion is complete and the bone has stabilized, the appliance and screws are removed, and you'll continue with braces or aligners to perfect your tooth alignment.
MARPE doesn't just create a wider smile – it can also improve your breathing and quality of life by expanding your nasal passages and airway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does MARPE hurt?
The miniscrew placement is done under local anesthesia and is generally well-tolerated. During the expansion phase, you may feel pressure or mild discomfort, but most patients manage this easily with over-the-counter pain relievers if needed.
How much can MARPE expand the palate?
MARPE can achieve significant skeletal expansion, typically 5-10mm or more. The exact amount depends on your individual anatomy and treatment goals.
Is MARPE better than traditional expanders?
For adults and older teens, MARPE offers significant advantages because it achieves true skeletal expansion rather than just dental tipping. Traditional expanders work well for younger children whose palatal suture is still flexible.
Will I need braces after MARPE?
Yes, MARPE is typically the first phase of treatment. After expansion is complete and stable, you will continue with braces or clear aligners to align your teeth and perfect your bite.
Can MARPE help with sleep apnea?
MARPE can improve nasal airflow by widening the nasal passages, which may help reduce symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea. However, sleep apnea treatment should be coordinated with a sleep specialist.