At Gellerman Orthodontics, we are dedicated to offering cutting-edge and efficient orthodontic solutions. One such innovative method is Palatal Expansion, also known as Miniscrew-Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion (MARPE). This treatment is designed to relieve adults suffering from sleep apnea, as well as patients who require surgical expansion but prefer to avoid general anesthesia or a hospital stay.
A narrow maxilla, or upper jaw, can cause a host of everyday problems including sleep-disordered breathing, chronic congestion, misaligned teeth, and TMJ symptoms. Traditionally, these issues have been addressed using CPAP machines, surgeries, or other remedies that may not provide permanent solutions.
However, MARPE offers a non-surgical, non-invasive approach to expand the upper jaw. This treatment method is particularly beneficial for adults, who were previously thought to be unsuitable candidates for palatal expansion due to the fusion of the midpalatal suture after adolescence.
How Does MARPE Work?
The MARPE treatment involves placing a small piece of hardware, similar to a retainer, on the roof of your mouth. This device is fixed to the palate with micro-screws. A key is given to the patient, which when turned at regular intervals, applies outward pressure on the palate, leading to its expansion.
Over time, this pressure causes the two halves of the palate to widen, creating more space in the mouth. This process not only helps to realign crowded teeth but also increases the volume of the nasal and oral cavities, thereby improving breathing and relieving symptoms of sleep apnea.
Once the recommended amount of expansion has been achieved, the patient continues to wear the device passively for a few months. This allows the bone to regenerate and heal in its new, expanded form. The final step often involves orthodontic treatment such as braces or Invisalign to ensure teeth are in their ideal positions.
How MARPE Helps Adults With Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea, a serious sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts, is often associated with a narrow upper jaw or restricted nasal airway. MARPE can be an effective solution in such cases. By expanding the palate, it increases the width of the nasal cavity and the volume of the airway, reducing the symptoms of sleep apnea.
This treatment can significantly improve the quality of life for adults suffering from sleep apnea, offering a non-invasive alternative to traditional sleep apnea treatments.
Affordable & Non-Invasive Solution For Patients
For patients requiring palatal expansion who either cannot afford surgical intervention or prefer to avoid general anesthesia and a hospital stay, MARPE offers an effective alternative. It is a cost-effective treatment that can be performed in the comfort of our orthodontic office, eliminating the need for a hospital visit.
In general, MARPE has a multitude of benefits for our patients:
- It expands the palate and increases nasal volume, enhancing breathing capabilities.
- It improves facial aesthetics by aligning crowded teeth.
- It creates more room for the tongue, reducing the risk of obstructive sleep apnea.
- It helps patients avoid invasive surgical procedures.
- It reduces the need for sleep appliances or CPAP machines.
At Gellerman Orthodontics, we understand that every patient is unique and requires a personalized treatment plan. Our experienced team will work closely with you to determine if MARPE is the right solution for your needs.
At Gellerman Orthodontics, we believe in providing the most effective and advanced treatments to our patients. Whether you're struggling with sleep apnea, TMJ symptoms, or misaligned teeth, our dedicated team led by Dr. Gellerman is here to help you explore if MARPE is the right solution for you.
Request your consultation today and start your journey towards improved oral health and a beautiful smile.