Pursuit for Optimum Skeletal Expansion: Case Reports on Miniscrew Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion (MARPE)

Abstract

Incorporation of mini screws in a conventional RPE appliance transforms it into a MARPE appliance. Mini screws ensure maximum skeletal expansion, keeping the dental expansion and resultant side effects to a minimum. Various designs have been recommended by authors around the globe; exclusively bone borne, teeth-bone borne and tissue-bone borne with two/ four mini screws in the assembly. Paramedian area 3 mm lateral to the suture in 1 st premolar region is considered the most appropriate site for placement of mini screws. Anterior screws are placed in the rugae area while posterior screws in the para-midsagittal area. This article (case series) describes three cases treated with MARPE appliance designs and protocols.