Palatal Expansion in New York, NY

Palatal expansion is a foundational orthodontic technique used to widen the upper jaw (maxilla) to improve dental alignment, airway function, and overall facial harmony. At our practice, we use a variety of modern, effective expansion techniques customized to each patient’s age, skeletal maturity, and orthodontic needs.

Why Expand the Upper Jaw?

A narrow upper jaw can lead to issues like crowding, crossbites, impacted teeth, or breathing difficulties. Expansion creates more room in the mouth, balances the bite, and can even support better facial development in growing children.

1. Rapid Palatal Expander (RPE) – Direct 3D-Printed Expanders

This is one of the most efficient ways to achieve true skeletal (bony) expansion in growing patients. We use state-of-the-art 3D printing technology to fabricate custom-fit expanders that are bonded to the teeth. With daily activation, this appliance gently separates the mid-palatal suture, encouraging bone growth and a wider upper arch.

2. Removable Expanders (Invisalign or Schwarz Appliance)

For patients who need more limited dental expansion or are better suited to a removable option, we offer:

• Invisalign First or Teen: In young patients, early-phase Invisalign aligners can be designed to guide mild dental expansion while also improving aesthetics and function.
• Schwarz Appliance: A removable acrylic expander that allows gradual dental expansion. It’s ideal for patients who can comply with wearing and activating the appliance as prescribed.

Please note: These options primarily move teeth rather than bone and are generally best for milder cases or when skeletal changes are not necessary.

3. MARPE (Miniscrew-Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion)

For older teens and adults—when the mid-palatal suture has started to fuse—traditional expansion methods may no longer be effective. MARPE offers a non-surgical alternative that can still achieve true skeletal expansion. This appliance is anchored directly into the palate using temporary mini-implants (TADs), allowing forces to be distributed to the bone rather than just the teeth.

In some cases, especially when resistance to expansion is high, we may enhance the procedure with a midline corticotomy—a small surgical cut in the suture to help facilitate separation. This can be done in-office or, depending on complexity, we may refer you to an oral surgeon to perform selective osteotomies (small, precise bone cuts) to assist in splitting the palate safely and effectively.

This approach allows us to achieve results that would otherwise require more invasive surgery and opens up new treatment possibilities for patients who were previously told they were “too old” for expansion.

Unlike the upper jaw, the lower jaw (mandible) cannot be widened through skeletal expansion. In the lower arch, we can:

• Upright or tip the back teeth outward slightly to gain space.
• Avoid aggressive expansion that could push teeth outside the bone, which risks long-term instability or gum issues.

Understanding these limitations helps us set realistic goals for treatment and maintain the health of the supporting bone and gums.

Forward Growth of the Maxilla

In younger children, especially those with underbites or skeletal deficiencies, we can use a facemask (reverse-pull headgear) to encourage forward growth of the upper jaw. This approach is most effective before the sutures begin to fuse, typically before age 10–12.

In Older Patients

In teens who have less growth potential remaining, we often combine MARPE with a facemask to help move the maxilla forward. In more advanced cases, we may recommend the use of De Clerck bone plates (Bollard plates) — small titanium anchors placed in the bone to apply orthopedic forces without relying on the teeth.

Whether your child is just beginning orthodontic treatment or you're a teen or adult looking for expansion options, we offer evidence-based, age-appropriate solutions tailored to your unique anatomy and goals. During your consultation, we’ll take advanced 3D imaging and create a treatment plan that prioritizes stability, airway health, and facial balance.

Ready to learn more about expansion options? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile.