What is Maxillary Skeletal Expansion?

A specialized device called the Maxillary Skeletal Expander (MSE) is used to widen the upper jaw’s palate gradually. This innovative treatment aims to create more space for teeth and improve the upper jaw and bite alignment. By targeting the jaw’s structural foundation, Maxillary Skeletal Expansion enhances aesthetics and contributes to better oral function and comfort.

Benefits of Using A Maxillary Skeletal Expander (MSE)

  • Improved dental alignment: Expansion can effectively address crowding, overlapping, and misalignment of teeth by creating sufficient space for them to naturally align.
  • Enhanced airway function: Widening the upper jaw can help improve airway function, potentially reducing the risk of breathing difficulties and sleep-related issues like sleep apnea.
  • Aesthetic enhancement: By achieving a more balanced dental arch, expansion can also produce a more pleasing smile and facial profile.
  • TMJ health: Correcting jaw misalignments through maxillary skeletal expansion can alleviate stress on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), reducing the risk of TMJ-related discomfort.
  • Enhanced chewing efficiency: Proper dental alignment resulting from expansion can enhance chewing efficiency and overall oral function.

What is the treatment experience?

Treatment typically involves the following steps:

Consultation

During your consultation, our experienced dental team will evaluate your oral health, dental alignment, and jaw structure to determine if Maxillary Skeletal Expansion is suitable for you.

Custom treatment plan

If expansion is recommended, we will create a personalized treatment plan tailored specifically for your current condition.

Device placement

The Maxillary Skeletal Expander (MSE) device will be placed in your upper jaw. The device is designed to widen the palate gradually and comfortably over a period of time.

Monitoring and adjustments

Throughout the treatment process, we will monitor your progress and make necessary adjustments to the MSE device to achieve the desired expansion.

Aftercare and maintenance

Following successful expansion, you may need to wear a retainer to maintain the achieved results and ensure long-term stability.

Why choose us?

You may have heard that expansion is not appropriate for adults because it only pushes the teeth. Our innovative approach widens the arch from the middle of the palate so that your teeth stay centrally positioned in the bone. At the San Francisco Center for TMJ and Sleep Apnea, we stand as a leader in providing MSE treatment for improved oral health and overall well-being. Led by Dr. Amin Samadian, our experienced team brings a wealth of expertise and a commitment to delivering exceptional results. With a comprehensive approach to dental care, we prioritize your individual needs, considering both functional requirements and aesthetic goals when recommending expansion.

MSE FAQ

What is Maxillary Skeletal Expansion (MSE)?

Who can benefit from Maxillary Skeletal Expansion (MSE)?

Is Maxillary Skeletal Expansion (MSE) painful?

How long does Maxillary Skeletal Expansion (MSE) treatment take?

Can adults undergo Maxillary Skeletal Expansion (MSE)?

Are there any side effects of Maxillary Skeletal Expansion (MSE)?

What are the benefits of Maxillary Skeletal Expansion (MSE)?

How do I know if I need Maxillary Skeletal Expansion (MSE)?

Is Maxillary Skeletal Expansion (MSE) a long-term solution?

Does Maxillary Skeletal Expansion (MSE) affect speech?

What is Maxillary Skeletal Expansion (MSE)?

Maxillary Skeletal Expansion (MSE) is a non-surgical orthodontic treatment that aims to widen the upper jaw. This technique involves a specialized device to gradually widen the maxilla, creating more space for proper alignment of teeth and improving overall oral function.

Who can benefit from Maxillary Skeletal Expansion (MSE)?

Maxillary Skeletal Expansion (MSE) is suitable for individuals with a narrow upper jaw, crowded teeth, crossbites, and breathing issues due to restricted airways. It’s particularly effective for children and adolescents, but adults can also benefit from this treatment depending on their specific oral conditions.

Is Maxillary Skeletal Expansion (MSE) painful?

Maxillary Skeletal Expansion (MSE) is usually not painful. Patients might experience some mild discomfort or pressure during the initial adjustment period, but it typically subsides quickly. Any discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief medications if needed.

How long does Maxillary Skeletal Expansion (MSE) treatment take?

The duration of Maxillary Skeletal Expansion (MSE) treatment varies depending on individual needs and the severity of the case. On average, the active expansion phase typically lasts a few weeks. After the expansion phase, there might be a retention period to ensure the results are maintained.

Can adults undergo Maxillary Skeletal Expansion (MSE)?

Yes, adults can undergo Maxillary Skeletal Expansion (MSE). The treatment may take longer compared to younger individuals due to the slower bone remodeling process, but generally, yes, adults with a narrow smile can benefit significantly from MSE. A thorough assessment by an experienced orthodontist will determine the suitability of Maxillary Skeletal Expansion (MSE) for adult patients.

Are there any side effects of Maxillary Skeletal Expansion (MSE)?

Maxillary Skeletal Expansion (MSE) is generally well-tolerated and safe. Temporary side effects might include slight speech changes or difficulty chewing during the adjustment phase. These effects typically resolve as the patient adapts to the expanded palate.

What are the benefits of Maxillary Skeletal Expansion (MSE)?

Maxillary Skeletal Expansion (MSE) offers several benefits, including improved dental alignment, enhanced breathing and airflow, reduction in sleep-disordered breathing symptoms, and overall improved oral and facial harmony. It can also contribute to better long-term oral health by preventing issues associated with a narrow upper jaw.

How do I know if I need Maxillary Skeletal Expansion (MSE)?

If you have crowded or misaligned teeth, difficulty breathing through your nose, a narrow upper jaw, or a crossbite, you might be a candidate for Maxillary Skeletal Expansion (MSE). Consultation with an experienced orthodontist or dental professional is essential to determine if Maxillary Skeletal Expansion (MSE) is suitable for your specific case.

Is Maxillary Skeletal Expansion (MSE) a long-term solution?

Maxillary Skeletal Expansion (MSE) can lead to permanent improvements in jaw width and alignment. However, like any orthodontic treatment, the stability of the results relies on following post-treatment instructions and wearing retainers as directed by your orthodontist.

Does Maxillary Skeletal Expansion (MSE) affect speech?

While there might be some temporary speech changes during the initial adjustment phase, they are usually minor and resolve as the patient gets used to the expanded palate. The long-term benefits of improved oral and nasal function can contribute positively to speech patterns.

Doctor media

Founder & Clinical Director Amin Samadian, D.D.S.

Dr. Samadian is a Diplomate of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. He has years of clinical hands-on training in full-mouth rehabilitation, cosmetics, implantology, and jaw dysfunction disorders. With a parallel clinical interest and pathway, He continued building his particular set of skills over the years by completing training and coursework in TMD and Sleep Breathing Disorders with the American Academy of Facial Esthetics, and the Misch Institute.

About Our Founder About Dion Health

Schedule Your Appointment

Contact Us Today
Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at 415-570-2841.
Contact Us