Freelove Orthodontics

At Freelove Orthodontics & Smile Design, we believe that a healthy, well-aligned smile starts with a balanced foundation. For patients with narrow palates or crowded teeth, a Rapid Palatal Expander (RPE) may be the ideal solution. RPEs are a proven orthodontic appliance designed to widen the upper jaw, creating the space needed for teeth to align properly. This treatment is particularly effective in younger patients, but with modern advancements, even adults can benefit from palatal expansion.

A top view reveals the intricate details of a palatal expander, seamlessly fitted in the upper jaw, showcasing teeth and gum in Kent or Sammamish, WA

Types and Mechanism of Palatal Expanders

Our office offers a variety of palatal expanders, each tailored to meet unique patient needs:  

Rapid Palatal Expander (RPE)

Perfect for younger patients, this traditional device attaches to the molars and uses a specialized screw system for precise adjustments. It’s most effective before the palatal suture fuses, making early intervention essential.  

Miniscrew-assisted RPE (MARPE)

Ideal for teens and adult patients, this innovative approach uses mini-implants to achieve optimal skeletal changes with minimal dental movement.
Dental mold showing an orthodontic palate expander from orthodontist in Sammamish or Kent, WA fitted on a model of the upper jaw, with metal components and screws visible.

What is a Rapid Palatal Expander?

A Rapid Palatal Expander is an orthodontic device that gradually widens the upper jaw. By creating additional space in the mouth, the RPE can help correct issues such as overcrowding, crossbites, and breathing difficulties caused by narrow palates. At Freelove Orthodontics, we customize each RPE to fit your mouth precisely, ensuring a comfortable and effective treatment experience.

Benefits of Rapid Palatal Expanders

Corrects Crossbites and Misalignments
A narrow upper jaw can lead to a crossbite, where the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth instead of outside. This misalignment can cause uneven wear on teeth and even jaw discomfort. RPEs gently and effectively correct crossbites by expanding the upper jaw to achieve better alignment.
Creates Space for Proper Tooth Alignment
One of the main reasons for using a Rapid Palatal Expander is to create space in the upper jaw. For patients with crowded teeth or those who need more room for permanent teeth to emerge, palatal expansion can prevent or reduce the need for tooth extractions and make orthodontic treatments, like braces, more effective.
Can Improve Breathing and Airway Function
Narrow palates can also contribute to breathing issues, especially during sleep. By widening the upper jaw, an RPE can help open up the nasal passages and improve airflow. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who experience snoring or obstructive sleep apnea due to a restricted airway. It is important to note that expansion is not necessarily a cure for sleep disordered breathing, and a multi-disciplinary approach is recommended in these cases.
Non-Invasive and Effective for Growing Patients
Rapid Palatal Expanders are most effective in children and pre-teens because their bones are still growing and more responsive to expansion. This makes RPEs a relatively quick and non-invasive solution for correcting jaw issues early on. The expansion process is gradual and typically only takes a few weeks, although the device is worn for a longer period to stabilize the new jaw width.

Mini-Implant Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion (MARPE)

For teenagers and adults, traditional RPEs may not always be effective because the bones of the palate are fully fused. In these cases, we offer an advanced solution known as Mini-Implant Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion (MARPE).

What is MARPE?

MARPE is a specialized type of palatal expander that uses mini-implants to provide additional anchorage and support during expansion. Unlike traditional RPEs that rely solely on dental pressure, MARPE applies force directly to the palatal bones through small, temporary implants placed in the roof of the mouth. This technique allows for successful expansion in patients whose bones have matured, making it an excellent option for adults who need jaw widening.

Benefits of MARPE

Effective for Adults
MARPE allows adult patients to achieve the same results as younger patients with traditional RPEs. Since the palate has fully fused in adulthood, MARPE’s mini-implants enable the precise separation of the palatal bones, creating the necessary space for alignment and improved function.
Broadens the Range of Effectiveness for Orthopedic Treatments
Facemask therapy can be effective in treating underbites in children under 10 years old, but when combined with MARPE, these treatments can be effective in teenagers and have even shown promise in some adults. This allows us to perform less invasive procedures and potentially avoid jaw surgeries for patients in the future.
Minimally Invasive
Though MARPE involves the placement of temporary mini-implants, the procedure is minimally invasive and performed in the comfort of our office. The implants are small, discreet, and easily removed once the treatment is complete.
Enhanced Stability
The mini-implants provide a more stable and predictable expansion process compared to traditional methods. This increased stability ensures that the results of the expansion are long-lasting and that the widened jaw provides ample room for proper alignment and bite correction.
Improves Jaw Function and Aesthetics
MARPE not only improves functional issues like bite and potentially breathing, but it can also enhance facial aesthetics by broadening the smile and improving facial symmetry.
Can Improve Breathing and Airway Function

MARPE (Mini-Implant Assisted Rapid Palatal Expanders) can enhance breathing and airway function by widening the upper jaw, which opens nasal passages and improves airflow. A wider airway promotes better oxygen intake and supports overall respiratory health during sleep.

Why Choose Freelove Orthodontics?

At Freelove Orthodontics & Smile Design, we prioritize patient-centered care and innovative treatment options. Whether you’re considering a Rapid Palatal Expander for your child or exploring MARPE for yourself, our experienced orthodontic team will guide you through the process with personalized care and expertise. We use the latest technology to ensure that your treatment is as comfortable, effective, and efficient as possible.

Ready to learn more about how palatal expansion can improve your smile and overall oral health? Contact Freelove Orthodontics & Smile Design today to schedule your consultation and discover which treatment option is best for you!
Patients having a consultation with Dr. Cameron Freelove, DDS, orthodontist in Sammamish or Kent, WA about her palate expander.

The Process of Impression or Scan and Placement of Separators

We utilize the latest technology for your comfort and convenience:  

Impression and Digital Scan

Freelove Orthodontics has replaced traditional impression methods with cutting-edge digital scanning technology. This ensures a more comfortable experience for our patients while providing superior accuracy in crafting your custom expander. 

Advantages Advanced Printed Appliances 
and Digital Scans

We are proud to use sophisticated technology to create perfectly tailored expanders, ensuring maximum comfort for our patients. 

Digital Workflow in Palatal Expander Fabrication

Our clinic uses an advanced digital workflow to design virtual models of your mouth, ensuring each palatal expander is uniquely customized to your dental structure.

Effectiveness and Outcomes

Treatment for maxillary deficiencies has shown excellent results, particularly in promoting skeletal changes during growth phases. Widening the palate offers additional benefits, such as improved nasal breathing, which is particularly helpful for patients with mouth-breathing habits.  

Palatal Expanders, Airway Improvement, Snoring and Sleep Apnea

Beyond just improving dental alignment, palatal expanders can enhance breathing and overall sleep quality. Many patients report reduced snoring and more restful sleep following treatment.  

Impact on Speech and Comfort

While there may be an initial adjustment period, most patients quickly adapt to their palatal expanders. Our professional team at Freelove Orthodontics provides consistent support to ensure your treatment experience is as comfortable as possible.  

Impact on Sleep Apnea and Snoring

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) causes blockages in the airway during sleep, leading to snoring and breathing disruptions. Palatal expansion can improve airflow by increasing the upper airway space, helping to alleviate breathing resistance.  

Clinical Evidence

Studies have shown that certain airway expansion techniques can significantly improve symptoms of sleep apnea in adults, highlighting their potential in managing sleep-related breathing issues.

Early Orthodontic Intervention

Early orthodontic care for children is crucial in many cases. Expanding the palate during a child’s growth phase not only creates room for crowded teeth but may also enhance airflow, potentially reducing the risk of future issues like sleep apnea.  

Importance of Comprehensive Diagnosis

3D imaging technology is an essential tool in diagnosing airway problems. It provides a detailed view of an individual’s airway structure, allowing for highly precise and effective treatment planning.  

Palatal Expander Before and After Photos

Before and after orthodontic treatment with a palate expander at Freelove Orthodontics in Sammamish or Kent, WA. Close-up images show dental alignment improvements and a palate expander in place.
Young patient before and after treatment with a palate expander at Freelove Orthodontics in Sammamish or Kent, WA. Images show improved dental arch expansion and smiling transformation

Conclusion

At Freelove Orthodontics in Sammamish and Kent WA, Dr. Cameron Freelove, DDS, and our expert team are dedicated to providing exceptional care using palatal expanders. By combining advanced technology with personalized treatment plans, we are committed to delivering optimal results for the Sammamish and Kent community.  

FAQ

How long does it take to see results with a palatal expander?

The majority of our patients observe noticeable improvements within a few weeks of beginning treatment. That said, the complete expansion process usually requires 3–6 months, based on personal needs and objectives.