If you’re an adult struggling with issues like crowded teeth, narrow arches, or breathing difficulties, you may have wondered if it’s too late to correct or change the shape and size of your upper jaw. The good news? Adult skeletal expansion is very possible, and it’s becoming increasingly common and effective thanks to advanced technology.
In Zionsville, Indiana, orthodontic practices like Godley Family Orthodontics offer modern solutions such as MSE (Maxillary Skeletal Expander) and MARPE (Miniscrew-Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion) to help adults widen their palate without surgery.
What Is Adult Skeletal Expansion?
Adult palatal expansion is a specialized form of orthodontic treatment used to widen the upper jaw (maxilla) after the mid-palatal suture has fused—a process that occurs in the teenage years. In children, traditional expanders work by gently widening the jaw before it fuses. But in adults, the bone is more rigid and interlocked, and expansion must target the jaw itself, not just the teeth.
Common adult conditions that may benefit from skeletal expansion include:
- Narrow upper jaw
- Misaligned bite
- Crossbite
- Crowded or misaligned teeth
- Breathing issues, snoring, or sleep apnea
- Addresses sleep-disordered breathing patterns
- Desire for a broader smile
Modern Options for Adult Palatal Expansion
- MARPE (Miniscrew-Assisted Rapid Palatal Expander)
The term “MARPE” is used for any expander that is combined with mini-implants. When mini- or micro-implants, also known as TADs (Temporary Anchorage Devices), were first introduced into orthodontics, they were incorporated into palate expanders to create hybrid appliances. These are known as micro-implant-assisted rapid palatal expanders (MARPEs), and there are several types that exist. Types of MARPEs vary in their components, design, and expansion protocols. The number, length, and location of the TADs vary among different MARPEs.
- MSE (Maxillary Skeletal Expander)
The maxillary skeletal expander (MSE) is a particular type of MARPE, first developed in 2003, which has evolved over time. The MSE was designed to apply expansion more in the back of the upper jaw. The main part of the expander is positioned between the upper first molars, unlike some other MARPEs. Four TADs are used to anchor the expander to the upper jaw. Longer TADs are typically used in MSEs to ensure good engagement with certain areas of the upper jaw. They typically engage the palate and nasal bone. This dual support provided by two layers of cortical bone reduces strain side effects of the TADs and helps prevent tipping. These are some of the unique features of MSE.
Benefits of MSE include reduced clockwise rotation of the lower jaw, reduced risk of bite opening. In addition, more parallel expansion is typically achieved, increasing the nasal cavity volume, and opening other upper jaw sutures. MSE offers a modern, non-surgical orthopedic correction devices for adult patients.
- Surgical Expansion
For some adults—especially those with severe bone fusion or significant asymmetry—a surgical approach may be necessary. SARPE (Surgically Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion) and Le Fort I osteotomies are both surgical procedures that can to expand the maxilla, but they differ in approach and application. SARPE combines surgery with a palate expander appliance to widen the upper jaw, while Le Fort I osteotomy involves a more extensive surgical procedure to reposition the entire maxilla.
Surgical expansion may be required if:
– The imbalance is severe
– The upper jaw bone is significantly dense
– The skeletal suture is unresponsive to MARPE or MSE
– A larger amount of expansion is needed quickly
– The orthodontist and oral surgeon recommend a combined approach
Benefits of Skeletal Expansion for Adults
MARPE and MSE are few of the only devices that can offer true skeletal expansion without surgery in many adult cases.
Both MARPE and MSE use small titanium screws called TADs (Temporary Anchorage Devices) placed in the palate, along with a specialized expander, to apply force to expand upper jaw bones—not just the teeth.
Benefits of skeletal expansion in adults include:
- Skeletal expansion
- Minimal dental tipping
- Can improve nasal airflow
- Can improve facial balance
- Can correct misaligned bites such as crossbite
- Often avoids the need for surgery
What to Expect During MARPE or MSE
- A full evaluation with digital imaging and scans to determine your expansion needs
- Placement of an expander (MSE, MARPE) inside the mouth
- Regular activation of the appliance using a small key to slowly widen the upper jaw
- Pressure or discomfort is normal, but most patients report the experience as manageable
- Temporary spacing between front teeth as the jaw widens
- Follow-up treatment with braces or clear aligners to align the teeth and refine your bite
- Retainers to hold your results
Finding Adult Palatal Expansion in Zionsville, IN
If you’re searching for “adult palate expansion Zionsville” or “MSE expander near me,” you’re in luck.
Located in the heart of Zionsville, Godley Family Orthodontics specializes in non-surgical skeletal expansion options like MSE and MARPE. Dr. Godley’s experience with adult orthodontics means you’ll get expert guidance, personalized planning, and experienced care designed to meet your unique adult needs.
Whether you’ve been told surgery is your only option—or you’re just starting your journey—Dr. Godley and the orthodontic team will help you explore the best treatment for your goals and anatomy.
FAQs
Is adult palate expansion really possible without surgery?
Yes. Thanks to MSE and MARPE, many adults can undergo skeletal expansion without surgery. However, a thorough evaluation with an experienced orthodontist is needed to determine if you are a candidate.
Does palate expansion change facial appearance?
In some cases, it can, in a positive way. Patients often report a broader smile, more balanced facial harmony, and improved breathing.
How long does treatment take?
Expansion with MARPE or MSE typically takes a a couple of months, followed by orthodontic treatment to align the teeth and bite. Total orthodontic treatment time varies but often ranges from 18–24 months.
Ready to Breathe Easier and Smile Bigger?
If you’re an adult wondering whether it’s too late to fix your narrow jaw, crowded teeth, or airway issues—it’s not. With modern advances like MSE, MARPE, adult skeletal expansion is safer and more accessible than ever before. Our expert orthodontist, Dr. Godley, has experience with adult skeletal expanders and orthodontic treatment for adults.
To learn more or schedule a consultation, contact Godley Family Orthodontics in Zionsville, IN today and take the first step toward a wider, healthier, more confident smile.
