At Matsumoto Orthodontics & Periodontics, we’re proud to offer advanced expansion options for adults who need more than traditional orthodontics.
One of these options is MARPE, or Miniscrew-Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion — a powerful treatment designed to widen the upper jaw in adolescents and adults, without the need for invasive jaw surgery.
While similar to the MSE (expander), which Dr. Matsumoto is also nationally recognized for, MARPE has key differences in its design and application that make it an ideal fit for certain patients.
If you’ve been told that jaw surgery is your only option, or if you’ve experienced airway or bite issues due to a narrow palate, MARPE may be the solution.
A MARPE expander is recommended for skeletally matured patients (meaning patients whose teeth and jaws are done developing), including:
Because the upper jaw stops growing in the late teen years, traditional palatal expanders are no longer effective for adults. MARPE offers a safe, non-surgical way to achieve skeletal expansion — meaning the actual bone is expanded, not just treatment for the teeth.
MARPE uses a highly customized palatal expander that’s anchored to the upper jaw with miniscrews, also called temporary anchorage devices (TADs). These small screws are gently placed into the palate to provide direct contact with the jawbone.
Over the course of a few weeks, the device is turned gradually, placing outward pressure on the mid-palatal suture and encouraging the upper jaw to widen. This process creates more space in the upper arch and improves the overall function and aesthetics of the bite and airway.
While MSE dental devices also use miniscrews and achieve skeletal expansion, MARPE is generally smaller in size and may be better suited for certain anatomical cases.
During your initial consultation, your nationally-recognized, board-certified and dual-certified doctor, Dr. Matsumoto, will evaluate your unique needs and determine whether MARPE or MSE is the better fit.
Your treatment begins with advanced 3D imaging and a full evaluation of your airway, jaw structure, and bite. If you’re a candidate for MARPE, the expander will be custom-fabricated and anchored in place using four miniscrews placed in the roof of the mouth.
Once the MARPE expander is activated:
This is a minimally invasive, in-office procedure, and most patients tolerate it very well with little to no downtime. If you receive MARPE treatment, Dr. Matsumoto will explain the whole process to you and ensure that you feel comfortable and informed, every step of the way.
There’s no one-size-fits-all price for treatment at our office, because every patient’s needs are unique.
The cost of the MARPE appliance will be included in your personalized treatment plan.
We’ll work with you to create a payment plan that covers the full cost of care — whether you’re receiving MARPE alone or as part of a comprehensive orthodontic plan. We offer flexible financing options, including in-house payment plans and LendingPoint financing.
During your first visit, Dr. Matsumoto will design your custom treatment plan, and our treatment coordinator will go over your options and build a plan that fits your budget.
If you’ve been told you need SARPE — a surgically assisted procedure…
Know that many patients are now able to avoid surgery entirely with advancements, like MARPE and MSE, and expert care.
Dr. Matsumoto has helped many patients throughout the country expand their jaw structure and transform their health and smile using nonsurgical methods.
During your consultation, we’ll discuss the benefits of MARPE vs SARPE and explore whether you may be a candidate for this advanced, non-surgical approach.
We’d love to hear from you, and we’re more than happy to answer all of your questions.
Our goal is to provide you with all of the information you need to make an informed decision about your smile, and your quality of life. We’ll walk you through all of your treatment options and guide you toward a treatment path that restores both the function and aesthetic of your smile.
Take the first step today and schedule your consultation at our orthodontic office in Porters Neck, Wilmington, NC today!
While the majority of our consultations are free, charges may apply in select complex surgical or complicated cases.