Abstract

MAXILLARY EXPANSION AND ITS EFFECTS ON IRCUMMAXILLARY STRUCTURES

Rathnapriya S. K.* and Dr. Beeularajakumari

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Abstract

Orthopedic expansion involves widening the upper jaw by applying outward pressure to the back teeth in the upper jaw, causing separation of the mid-palatal suture. Lateral discrepancies in the maxilla are among the most common issues encountered, with a narrowed maxillary arch frequently presenting as a problem for orthodontists used to treat teens and adults. Maxillary expansion is a technique that increases the width of the upper jaw by applying targeted forces. , Most commonly used in pediatric patients addressing a narrow maxillary arch requires orthopedic and orthodontic interventions. Orthodontic treatment prioritizes the correction of lateral maxillary defects, which may manifest as clinical symptoms such as a narrow palate, cross-bites (unilateral or bilateral, typically in the posterior region), severe anterior crowding, and cone-shaped hypertrophy. Treatment options for maxillary narrowing include slow and rapid maxillary expansion and surgically assisted rapid maxillary expansion. Maxillary expansion affects the naso maxillary complex, altering facial structures and potentially impacting speech and hearing. This review article explores maxillary expansion in detail, focusing on its effects on the associated structures.

Keywords: Rapid maxillary expansion, Slow maxillary expansion, Surgically assisted maxillary expansion, Types, Effects.