Evaluation of the Effects of Different Rapid Maxillary Expansion Methods on the Nasomaxillary Complex Structures

What this Trial Is About

Maxillary transverse deficiency is a condition where the upper and lower dental arches do not align properly due to a narrow maxilla. This condition can cause symptoms such as crossbite, crowded teeth, and breathing difficulties. Causes include genetic factors, early loss of baby teeth, mouth breathing, thumb sucking, and abnormal swallowing. Treatment depends on age and suture closure, with rapid or slow palatal expansion used in younger patients and surgical or mini-screw-assisted methods preferred for adults due to bone rigidity. This study compares two treatments for maxillary transverse narrowing: mini-screw-assisted rapid palatal expansion (MARPE) and surgically assisted rapid maxillary expansion (SARME). Thirty patients will be divided into these groups based on their expansion needs and suture condition. The MARPE group will receive custom mini-screw devices placed under local anesthesia, while the SARME group will undergo surgery with an acrylic cap splint. Both groups will have their appliances removed after six months of retention. Participants will undergo cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans before treatment and after six months to measure changes in craniofacial volumes, canal dimensions, nasal breathing volume, and septal deviation. The study will assess volume, length, angle, and diameter changes in nasolacrimal and nasopalatine canals, maxillary sinus volume, and ostium openings. These evaluations aim to compare the effects of MARPE and SARME on the nasomaxillary complex structures over the treatment period.

Evaluation of Maxillary Expansion Methods on Nasomaxillary Structures