Are you an adult with a narrow upper jaw? Do you snore in your sleep? Possibly have a crossbite?

Then it is a good idea for you to understand how the technique works and some important knowledge you need to know before the procedure for successful results.

What is a Maxillary Skeletal Expander (MSE)?

Maxillary Skeletal Expander is an effective non-surgical treatment approach for expanding the upper jaw. A narrow upper jaw is associated with nasal obstruction, crowded teeth, and asymmetric facial development. These features are one of the characteristics of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Conventional maxillary expander treatments are common to treat narrow upper jaw. However, these are limited to children because the suture holding the maxillary bones together (known as the mid-palatal suture) fuses around 12-15 years of age. MSE is innovative because it extends this timeline by directly connecting the expander to the palatal bone. MSE can be effective for adults whose suture has already fused.

How does MSE work?

MSE works by expanding the maxillary bone, thereby increasing the volume of the nasal cavity and oral cavity. This decreases nasal resistance and gives the tongue more room to sit upwards and forwards in the mouth, making the airway larger.

This is achieved by placing a custom-made maxillary expander that is attached on the permanent upper molars and have mini-pins placed along the mid-palatal suture (the suture connects the right and left halves of the upper jaw). The procedure typically lasts 20-30 minutes under local anesthesia, with minimal discomfort and can be managed with an over the counter painkiller usually for 1-2 days. The appliance is activated by turning the expander using a key that latches to the middle of the appliance. 

The expander will remain in place until the new bone at the suture forms in 4-6 months. Once the upper jaw has been successfully expanded, braces or clear aligners can be used to line up the teeth and achieve a beautiful smile!

Why Consider MSE?

Besides its ability to treat adults, MSE also benefits from fewer side effects compared to conventional expander or surgery. MSE uses mini-screws to directly apply forces to the mid-palatal suture, whereas conventional expanders use the teeth as anchor units.

MSE avoids undesirable tooth movement and attains greater bone expansion while minimizing dental side effects. In doing so, MSE can achieve maximum airflow and reduce symptoms of sleep apnea.

At Embraces Smiles Orthodontics, Dr Chong uses accurate custom 3D printed expanders. Our priority is always to give our patients the most comfortable and effective treatment. Schedule a complimentary consultation for yourself or for your child if you think you can benefit from expansion. Call us at 408 805 9198, or schedule online at https://embracedentalgroup.com/schedule-a-consultation/

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BEFORE MSE

AFTER MSE