Achieving a healthy, beautiful smile goes beyond just having straight teeth

It involves the alignment of the jaws, bite, and overall facial harmony.

Whether you’re a teenager or an adult seeking treatment, Dr. Matt Francisco and his experienced team offer orthodontic services, including MSE (Microimplant-Supported Skeletal Expansion), MARPE (Mini-Implant Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion), and aligners.

What is Orthodontics?

Orthodontics is an exciting area of dentistry focused on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth and irregularities of the jaw.

While many people associate orthodontics with braces, advancements in technology now offer several treatment options that can be tailored to your specific needs.

 

What You Need To Know About Advanced Palatal Expansion: MSE & MARPE

MSE (Microimplant-Supported Skeletal Expansion)

MSE uses small titanium screws (microimplants) placed in the palate to anchor an expansion device. This device gently widens the upper jaw by applying steady, precise pressure to the mid-palatal suture.

  • Benefits:

    • Corrects crossbites and overcrowding.

    • May improve facial symmetry.

    • Can enhance airway function.

MARPE (Mini-Implant Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion)

MARPE is similar to MSE but typically exerts a more rapid force to separate the mid-palatal suture. It’s especially effective for older teens and adults whose sutures may be more fused than in younger patients, where traditional expansion can be less effective.

  • Benefits:

    • Quick, efficient widening of the upper arch.

    • Ideal for mature patients.

    • Addresses crossbites, crowding, and can aid in improving nasal breathing.

When to Consider MSE or MARPE

  • Narrow Palate: If you’ve been told your upper jaw is narrow, or if you have a history of mouth breathing and crowding, these treatments may help create a broader, healthier smile.

  • Bite Issues: Crossbites, underbites, or significant crowding can often be minimized or corrected through controlled palatal expansion.

  • Adult & Teen Patients: These technologies are especially valuable for older teens and adults who have less pliable facial sutures.