Maxillary Expansion and Its Effects on Circummaxillary Structures: A Review

Abstract

Transverse maxillary discrepancies are the most common. The narrowed upper arch is the most prevalent problem an orthodontist encounter while treating adolescent and adult patients. Maxillary expansion is a technique used to increase the upper arch's transverse dimension to apply forces to widen the upper arch. For young children, a narrow maxillary arch has to be corrected using orthopedic and orthodontic treatments. In an orthodontic treatment plan, it is crucial to update transverse maxillary defeat. There are various clinical manifestations associated with a transverse maxillary deficiency which include a narrow palate, crossbite mainly seen in posteriors (unilateral or bilateral), severe crowding in anterior teeth, and cone-shaped hypertrophy can be seen. Some frequently used therapies for constricted upper arch include slow maxillary expansion, rapid maxillary expansion, and surgically assisted rapid maxillary expansion. Slow maxillary expansion requires light and constant force, whereas rapid maxillary expansion needs heavy pressure for activation. The surgical-assisted rapid maxillary expansion has gradually become popular to correct transverse maxillary hypoplasia. The maxillary expansion has various consequences on the nasomaxillary complex. There are multiple effects of maxillary expansion on the nasomaxillary complex. Mainly, the effect is seen on the mid-palatine suture along with the palate, maxilla, mandible, temporomandibular joint, soft tissue, and anterior and posterior upper teeth. It also affects functions like speech and hearing. Information on maxillary expansion is provided in depth in the following review article, along with its various effects on the surrounding structure.

Keywords: effects of maxillary expansion; maxillary expansion; rapid maxillary expansion; slow maxillary expansion; surgically assisted rapid maxillary expansion.

Figure 1. Maxillary expansion overview