Expand Your Smile with MARPE/MSE Adult & Teen Expanders

Who Is a Candidate for MARPE?

MARPE may be recommended if you:

• Are 17 years of age or older with a narrow upper jaw
• Have dental crowding related to a narrow palate — not just tooth position
• Experience mouth breathing, chronic nasal congestion, or have been evaluated for sleep-disordered breathing
• Were told as a teen that expansion was "no longer possible" without surgery
• Have a posterior crossbite or significant asymmetry of the upper jaw

We use CBCT (cone beam computed tomography) 3D imaging to assess your overall skeletal presentation. Most patients can be candidates for non-surgical expansion, but a comprehensive airway evaluation will determine your individualized treatment. We will always give you an honest recommendation based on your imaging and symptoms.

What Does the Procedure Involve?

Step 1 — Consultation & Imaging

We take a CBCT scan and evaluate your jaw structure, suture maturity, and airway dimensions.

Step 2 — Device Placement

The MARPE expander is placed in a single appointment. Local anesthetic is used. The placement itself takes approximately 30–45 minutes. Most patients describe the experience as pressure rather than pain.

Step 3 — Activation

You will activate the expander at home by turning a small key. We provide a detailed activation schedule and a week-by-week guide explaining what to expect. We use a slow protocol to keep the process gentle and controlled and avoid asymmetries or craniofacial fractures.

Step 4 — Retention

After the expansion goal is reached (usually 3–5 months of active expansion), the device remains in place for 6–12 months to allow new bone to form and stabilize. Removing it too early risks relapse.

Step 5 — Ongoing orthodontic treatment

Most MARPE patients proceed to braces or clear aligners one month after expansion to complete their smile correction while expanding.

What to Expect — Normal Side Effects

The following are normal and expected during MARPE treatment:

• A temporary gap between the upper front teeth — this is a sign the expansion is working and we will actively close it while expanding to keep the gap very minimal throughout the treatment time.
• Mild pressure after activations, especially in the first few days
• A feeling of fullness or pressure in the nose or under the eyes
• Minor changes in speech for the first few weeks
• Some sensitivity at the screw sites during the first week

Please contact our office if you experience: significant pain that is not controlled by over-the-counter medication, swelling that worsens after the first few days, a screw that appears loose, or any symptoms that concern you. We are always available to answer questions.

Is MARPE Safe?

MARPE performed by an experienced orthodontist using proper imaging and a conservative  activation protocol has an excellent safety profile. Complications are rare and most commonly  associated with excessive force or too-rapid expansion — which is exactly why we use a slow, controlled protocol. We recommend MARPE only for appropriate candidates identified through 3D imaging. We do not use MARPE as a one-size-fits-all solution, and we will always discuss risks and alternatives with you during your consultation.

What Does MARPE Cost at Inspire Orthodontics?

MARPE is typically part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Cost varies based on the extent of treatment needed. We offer transparent, upfront comprehensive pricing with no hidden fees, and we work with most major insurance providers. Flexible interest free payment plans are available. Please visit our Pricing page or call us to discuss your specific situation.