At Miami Designer Smiles, we are dedicated to providing the best orthodontic services to our patients. In recent years, Miniscrew-Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion (MARPE) has become a significant part of our practice. MARPE is a non-invasive procedure that is changing the way we approach orthodontics. In this blog post, we will delve into the science behind MARPE and how it’s improving orthodontics.
MARPE: A Revolution in Orthodontics
MARPE is a revolutionary procedure that is reshaping the field of orthodontics. It’s based on the principle of rapid palatal expansion (RPE), a technique used to widen the upper jaw. Unlike traditional RPE, MARPE takes this technique to a new level by adding miniscrews that anchor the expansion device to the palate. This results in a more effective and efficient treatment with fewer complications.
The Need for Palatal Expansion
The dental arch, or the set of teeth in the upper or lower jaw, plays a crucial role in our oral health. If the dental arch is narrow, it can lead to a variety of issues like crowding of teeth, improper bite, and even breathing problems. With the help of MARPE, we can naturally expand the dental arch, improve facial structure, and resolve these issues.
The MARPE Procedure
The MARPE procedure is performed in-office in three major steps:
- Placement of Miniscrews:
The procedure begins with the placement of miniscrews in the palate, under local anesthesia. These miniscrews act as anchors for the expansion device to facilitate the expansion of the palate.
- Expander Adjustment:
Next, the orthodontist attaches an expander to the miniscrews and adjusts it accordingly. The patient is then advised on how to turn the screw to further expand the palate at home.
- Monitoring and Refinement:
Post-procedure, the patient visits Miami Designer Smiles for regular check-ups. Our dentists, Dr. Concepcion Sanchez-Garcia and Dr. Raul Garcia, assess the progress and make any necessary adjustments to the expander.
Benefits of MARPE
Corrective orthodontics using MARPE comes with a multitude of benefits, both functional and aesthetic.
Improved Facial Structure
Unlike traditional orthodontic solutions, which mainly focus on aesthetics, MARPE aims to make functional improvements to the facial structure. By expanding the upper jaw, we are creating more space for natural tooth fitting. This leads to better alignment and facial symmetry, enhancing overall facial aesthetics.
Relief from Breathing Issues
Breathing issues related to narrowed or constricted airways can be resolved with MARPE. A wider dental arch opens up space in the nasal cavity and throat, leading to better airflow. This, in turn, can relieve symptoms of sleep apnea and improve sleep quality.
Time and Cost Efficiency
MARPE not only achieves superior results but does so more efficiently than traditional methods. The treatment duration is usually shorter, and the need for invasive surgeries or dental extractions is minimized.
Case Study: Jimmy
Jimmy, a patient at Miami Designer Smiles, approached us for braces in 2017. Looking beyond his orthodontic concerns, we conducted a sleep study and diagnosed him with sleep apnea. With MARPE, we not only straightened his teeth but also treated his sleep apnea by expanding his dental arch. This case reinforces our commitment to holistic oral health care, demonstrating how MARPE is truly changing orthodontics for the better.