MARPE / MASPE

MASPE stands for Miniscrew-Assisted Slow Palatal Expansion. It's an advanced orthodontic treatment used primarily in adults and older teens to widen the upper jaw (maxilla) when it's narrow.

This technique is a variation or gentler alternative to the more commonly known MARPE (Miniscrew-Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion).

• Miniscrews (TADs — Temporary Anchorage Devices): Small titanium screws are placed into the palatal bone to anchor the expander directly to the bone (skeletal anchorage), rather than relying mainly on the teeth. This allows true skeletal expansion instead of just moving the teeth.
• Slow expansion: Unlike rapid methods (where the expander is activated quickly, often 0.5–1 mm per day), MASPE uses gradual, gentle activation over weeks to months (lower force levels, e.g., limited to around 500 cN in some protocols). This promotes more natural bone remodeling and suture separation.
• Non-surgical: No need for invasive surgery like traditional SARPE (Surgically Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion).

• Corrects transverse maxillary deficiency (narrow upper jaw)
• Creates more space for teeth (helps with crowding or crossbites)
• Increases nasal cavity volume → can improve breathing, reduce snoring, and help with issues like sleep apnea or nasal obstruction
• Often results in less discomfort, fewer side effects (like large temporary gaps between front teeth/diastema, tooth tipping, or excessive pressure on surrounding structures), and potentially better long-term stability compared to rapid protocols

• Speed: MASPE = slow/gradual; MARPE = rapid
• Comfort: MASPE generally causes less pain, fewer headaches, and lower risk of TMJ issues or cranial stress
• Side effects: MASPE tends to minimize unwanted dental movement and may produce a cleaner skeletal result in some studies
• Success rate: Both are effective for skeletal expansion in adults (where the midpalatal suture is fused), but some clinicians prefer slow expansion to reduce complications