What does “Rapid palatal expansion” mean?
Rapid palatal expansion uses an expansion appliance to widen a narrow upper jaw. It is also called rapid maxillary expansion, or RPE/RME. The term does not mean rapidly aligning all the teeth.
Assess the cause of the narrowness and the stage of growth
A crossbite may involve tooth position, skeletal relationships or a functional shift of the jaw. Examination and necessary records help establish which changes are needed. Growth and tissue conditions influence appliance selection and the changes that can be achieved.
Separate active expansion from the holding phase
After the expansion mechanism is adjusted according to the clinical plan, a phase is needed to maintain the increased width. A gap can appear between the front teeth, but its appearance alone does not indicate that treatment is complete. Further treatment may be needed to align the teeth and coordinate the bite.
Follow the prescribed adjustment and review instructions
Follow your individual instructions for adjustment frequency and duration; do not increase them yourself. If the appliance develops a problem, stop turning the screw and contact the team. Clean around the bands and appliance, and continue routine checks for tooth decay and gum health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does rapid palatal expansion make the whole orthodontic treatment quick?
No. Changing upper-jaw width is a different stage from finishing tooth alignment and the bite. Ask whether further treatment and retention are needed after expansion.
Will turning the screw more make expansion work better?
Do not increase the adjustments yourself. Follow the method and frequency prescribed by the team. If pain, an appliance problem or another concern arises, stop adjusting it and contact the team for advice.
Understanding expansion goals and each stage of care
Learn what the term means and how it relates to your dental condition.
- Sufficient understanding
Which width and bite problems are being addressed?
Explanation and evidenceAsk the team to distinguish tooth inclination, skeletal width and growth status, and explain why this appliance was chosen and what alternatives are possible.
AAPD: Assessment and management of the developing dentition and occlusion (2024 revision) - Care after treatment
What remains after active adjustment finishes?
Explanation and evidenceConfirm adjustment and review instructions, when to contact the team, the holding phase and any subsequent alignment or bite treatment.
British Orthodontic Society: Rapid maxillary expansion patient leaflet (2019 reprint)
Further reading and references
Further reading
References
- British Orthodontic Society: Rapid maxillary expansion patient leaflet (2019 reprint)bos.org.uk (opens in a new tab)
- AAPD: Assessment and management of the developing dentition and occlusion (2024 revision)aapd.org (opens in a new tab)
- NHS: Orthodontic assessment, appliances and retentionnhs.uk (opens in a new tab)
