Procedure using CAD/CAM-manufactured insertion guides for purely mini-implant-borne rapid maxillary expanders

Abstract

With traditional rapid palatal expansion (RPE), orthopaedic forces are transmitted to the skeletal structures via the anchor teeth potentially leading to several unwanted dental side effects. To prevent these issues, tooth–bone-borne or purely bone-borne expanders were introduced using mini-implants in the palate. In this paper, the digitally planned Quadexpander is described which permits palatal expansion with only skeletal anchorage. The use of virtual insertion planning allows for insertion in areas of ideal bone, while avoiding roots and vital structures as well as the possibility of insertion into sites which would otherwise not be considered usable. A second advantage of digital planning is that mini-implants and the expander can be inserted in just one appointment.