What is MARPE?

MARPE (Miniscrew-Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion) is an innovative, minimally invasive approach to expanding the upper jaw (maxilla). Traditional palatal expanders are typically limited to children because the midpalatal suture—the joint that runs through the roof of the mouth—fuses around age 11 to 16. MARPE offers a breakthrough: it can gently and effectively expand the upper jaw even after this fusion by anchoring directly into the palatal bone using biocompatible mini-screws.

A narrow maxilla is more than just a cosmetic concern. It’s often tied to nasal obstruction, dental crowding, poor tongue posture, and disrupted facial development. These structural issues can also contribute to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), mouth breathing, and chronic fatigue. By addressing the root of the problem, MARPE allows us to support the airway, the bite, and long-term craniofacial growth—all without extractions or advanced jaw surgeries.

How does MARPE work?

MARPE works by applying gentle forces through a custom-fabricated expander anchored to 4-6 tiny mini-screws placed along the roof of the mouth. These forces stimulate the body to remodel bone and open the suture, increasing both the width of the nasal cavity and the oral cavity.

This expansion leads to:

  • Better airflow through the nose

  • More space for the tongue to rest properly against the palate

  • Improved oral posture and breathing patterns

  • Enhanced airway development

  • Increased space for teeth

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia. Most patients experience manageable discomfort for the first 1-3 days, often managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

Patients then activate the expander by turning a small key every 4th day until they are satisfied with the expansion. A temporary gap between the front teeth is expected—and is actually a good sign that the suture is opening. Once the desired expansion is achieved, the expander stays in place for 6 months while the body fills in the space with new bone. Stage 2 Orthodontics/Clear Aligners can then help guide the teeth into a aligned and stable bite while undergoing Clear Aligner therapy/orthodontics.

For pictures, videos of the procedure (it’s less invasive than it sounds) check out our MARPE story highlight on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rooteddentalwellness

Why Choose MARPE?

MARPE is one of the most airway-conscious, biologically respectful ways to create space in the mouth—without compromising the integrity of the teeth.

Unlike traditional expanders that rely on the teeth for anchorage (which can cause unwanted tipping or movement), MARPE transmits forces directly to the bone. That means:

  • Greater skeletal expansion

  • Fewer side effects on the teeth

  • Improved long-term stability

  • Better outcomes for airway and sleep health

  • True bone growth (proper nutrition, highly recommended)

MARPE is ideal for patients who:

  • Have a narrow upper jaw or high-arched palate

  • Breathe through their mouth or snore

  • Show signs of sleep-disordered breathing or fatigue

  • Experience dental crowding, “cross bite” or poor tongue posture

  • Have been told they’re too old for traditional expansion

What is a Corticotomy and When is it Needed?

In some cases, especially when the midpalatal suture is highly fused or the bone is particularly dense, we may recommend a corticotomy to assist the MARPE process. A corticotomy is a minimally invasive procedure where small, precise ultrasonic vibration cuts are made in the cortical bone along the suture to help stimulate bone remodeling and encourage the suture to open more predictably.

This can enhance the success of MARPE in where expansion might otherwise be difficult. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and recovery is usually quick and well-tolerated. An oral band aid is placed over the area and allow the area to heal for 10-14 days before starting any turns of MARPE. It sounds intimidating, but it’s quiet simple. In fact, we have videos of the procedure on our Instagram Story Highlight, “MARPE”.

We evaluate the need for a corticotomy using advanced imaging (CBCT) to ensure your treatment is customized, efficient, and as gentle as possible.

Our Approach

At Rooted Dental Wellness & Untethered, we believe true healing begins at the root cause. We don't just aim to straighten teeth—we aim to support whole-body health through proper breathing, jaw development, and functional oral habits. MARPE is one of the powerful tools we use in our airway-forward philosophy to help our patients unlock their best smiles and their best lives.