Short answer: Conventional palatal expansion transmits force through the teeth and is mostly used in growing children. MARPE transmits force to the bone through mini-screws placed in the palate and may be preferred in young adults. SARPE is expansion assisted by a minor surgical procedure in cases where the bone is more resistant. The choice is made according to age, bone structure and the amount of expansion needed.
Conventional palatal expansion (RPE)
- Who for: Mostly children and teenagers whose palatal midline has not yet fused
- How: A screw appliance anchored to the molars with bands
- Limit: With increasing age, the force may tip the teeth outwards
For details, see our article on the palatal expander.
MARPE (miniscrew-assisted rapid palatal expansion)
- Who for: Teenagers whose growth is nearly complete and young adults
- How: The expansion appliance is supported by mini-screws placed in the palate
- Limit: Depending on bone structure, the midline may not always open
For the process, read our article on how MARPE treatment is done.
SARPE (surgically assisted rapid palatal expansion)
- Who for: Adults whose bone is resistant or in whom MARPE is not expected to produce enough opening
- How: The expander is turned after small bone cuts made by a maxillofacial surgeon
- Limit: It is a surgical procedure; it requires a recovery period and additional planning
For more extensive jaw discrepancies, take a look at our article on orthognathic surgery.
Which method suits whom?
There is no strict age limit. The state of the palatal midline, bone thickness, gum health and the amount of expansion needed are assessed together. Different methods may be recommended for two people of the same age. Clear aligners, on the other hand, can widen the dental arch to a limited extent; they do not always replace skeletal expansion. For general information, see our page on orthodontic jaw expansion treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Is MARPE or SARPE more suitable?
This decision is made according to bone structure and age, through examination and three-dimensional imaging; the two are preferred for different situations.
Is MARPE used in children?
In growing children conventional expanders are mostly sufficient; mini-screw support may be considered in certain cases.
Do the teeth go back after expansion?
The waiting period and retention after expansion help preserve the result achieved.
How can you find out which method suits you?
Whether palatal expansion is needed and which method is suitable are decided by assessing age, the state of the palatal midline, bone structure and three-dimensional imaging together. At our clinic in Oran, Çankaya, Ankara, we discuss the options with you during the first orthodontic examination. For all expansion and other appliance types, take a look at our guide to orthodontic appliances.
