Comparing Invisalign Palatal Expander and Rapid Maxillary Expansion Devices in Children with Maxillary Transverse Deficiency Using 3D Evaluation Methods

What this Trial Is About

This clinical trial studies children aged 6 to 12 with maxillary transverse deficiency, a condition causing dental crowding and crossbite. It compares two methods of maxillary expansion a traditional Rapid Maxillary Expansion RME using an acrylic cap splint with daily screw activations, and a modern digital Invisalign Palatal Expander IPE made with 3D printing that fits the palate and activates in smaller steps. The trial also includes a control group that does not receive expansion treatment. Participants are randomly assigned to three groups IPE, RME, or untreated controls. The IPE is a removable nylon device activated at 0.25 mm per step, while RME uses a bonded acrylic splint with a screw activated at 0.5 mm per day. Both treatment groups undergo expansion followed by retention. The control group receives no treatment during the study period. Three-dimensional intraoral and extraoral scans are taken at the end of expansion, at 3 months, and at 6 months. Participants will have scans to measure maxillary arch width, first molar angulation, palatal surface area, palatal volume, and facial soft tissue changes over time. These assessments help compare the effects of the two expansion methods and the untreated group. The study aims to provide evidence to guide orthodontic care in children with this condition. The total study duration extends through the 6-month retention period after expansion.

3D Evaluation of Maxillary Expansion Methods