Overview
When the upper jaw needs real skeletal expansion and growth has mostly finished, MARPE can open new space with precision. At Brace Yourself Orthodontics, Dr. Jay uses Miniscrew Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion to widen the palate, relieve crowding, correct crossbites, and build a stronger foundation for your final smile. If you have been told you are not a candidate for traditional expanders, MARPE may change the story.
What is MARPE?
MARPE stands for Miniscrew Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion. The appliance sits against the palate and anchors to tiny temporary miniscrews. That anchorage directs expansion force to the mid palatal suture rather than just the teeth. The palate widens, new bone forms, and the arch gains real room for alignment and bite correction.
Who MARPE Helps
- Older teens and adults with narrow arches, crossbites, or crowding who have limited or closed growth plates.
- Patients who want to avoid removing permanent teeth when possible.
- People seeking a broader smile and better arch form with a biomechanically efficient approach.
Benefits of MARPE
- Space for crowded teeth
- Improved bite relationships and arch symmetry
- Broader smile aesthetics and arch form
- Tooth-borne side effects reduced compared to traditional expanders in mature patients A foundation that sets up braces or Invisalign aligners to finish beautifully
Brace Yourself Orthodontics Reviews
Very professional and kind
Wonderful first experience at the office!!! Everyone was so nice, from the front office staff, the tech the did my X-rays, the tech that placed my brackets, and Dr. Jay! They answered every question I had and never once made me feel like I was asking dumb questions. Would definitely recommend Brace Yourself Orthodontics to anyone!!!!
Love my new retainer!! Thank you.
Always an absolutely wonderful experience. The staff are all so wonderful, friendly and knowledgeable!
We love Emma, she is always great! Dr. Jay is awesome!
413
Total Reviews
5
Average Rating
Frequently Asked Questions
Is MARPE painful?
Most patients describe pressure more than pain during the first few activations. Over-the-counter relief is usually enough for a day or two.
How long does treatment take?
Activation is typically weeks, followed by a stabilization phase while new bone forms. Timelines vary by anatomy and goals, and Dr. Jay will outline your plan at the consult.
Will I still need braces or aligners?
Usually yes. MARPE creates skeletal space and improves arch form. Braces or Invisalign aligners complete alignment and bite detailing.
What if I were told I need surgery?
Some cases still benefit from a surgically assisted plan. Many patients who were not good candidates for tooth-borne expansion can be helped with MARPE alone. Dr. Jay will review imaging and discuss the safest, predictable path for you.
What about traditional expanders?
Growing patients often do great with an RPE. For details on that option, see our Skeletal Expansion page.
How MARPE Works
Your visit starts with a digital scan using iTero and imaging to map the palate. Dr. Jay designs the appliance and places the miniscrews in office. Small at home turns activate expansion over a short window, often measured in weeks. A stabilization phase follows while new bone sets. Braces or aligners can then fine tune alignment and bite.
How to Care for a MARPE
Brush along the gumline and around the appliance after meals and before bed. Use a floss threader or a water flosser to reach under the framework. Rinse with a fluoride mouthwash. Avoid very hard or sticky foods that could stress the appliance. If an edge rubs, place orthodontic wax and contact our office. Dr. Jay provides a simple turning schedule and quick check ins to keep everything on track.
