703-712-1053 
MARPE is “mini-implant assisted rapid palatal expansion.” The MARPE adult expander uses temporary mini implants installed into the palate to increase the width of the palate by stimulating bone growth.
MARPE Insertion
Dr Adams will design and insert the MARPE expander onto the palate. The minimally painful procedure takes about 15 minutes and involves a small dose of local anesthesia.
Large Increase in Width of the Upper Jaw
MARPE is a treatment we use in cases where the width of the palate is quite narrow. The MARPE will increase the width of the upper jaw by a large amount. It does not stimulate any forward growth and it does not have any effect on the lower jaw. MARPE is always used in combination with other orthodontic appliances because most people need 3D growth and we will need to manage teeth positions and the relationship between the upper and lower jaws.
Save Time and Avoid Unsightly Spaces with Combined MARPE and Invisalign
Our most popular MARPE protocol involves simultaneous MARPE and clear braces. In this treatment regimen the teeth can be moved around at the same time palatal expansion is done with the MARPE. The treatment usually takes 1 year and avoids large spaces from opening between the teeth. The treatment is called DOME zero.
Slow and Gentle Palatal Expansion
Traditionally MARPE is a rapid palatal expander (as the RPE implies). Typically doctors expand the appliances very quickly but we use a slow expansion protocol MASPE that is effective and minimizes the stress on cranial, facial and vertebral structures.
DOME zero
We now offer a product with slow MARPE (aka MASPE) Expanders and clear braces at the same time. The product is called DOME zero. The service expands the jaw at the same time it aligns the teeth. The treatment approach prevents large spaces from developing between the front teeth, improves the bite and expands the upper jaw all at once. The treatment times are cut in 1/2 and the results are sometimes even better than performing MARPE and Invisalign in sequence. Treatment times can be 6-12 months vs 2 years in some cases.
Traditional MARPE expansion results in a large space opening up between the front teeth. The space is called a diastema. Needless to say, MARPE is not a stand-alone treatment. People who undergo MARPE treatment will also need other treatments such as Invisalign for example to close the space between front teeth. Other appliances may be needed to get forward growth or to improve the relationship between the upper and lower jaw or to correct a facial asymmetry.
MARPE with Invisalign and Bite Splint Therapy
In cases where patients have TMJ and clench their teeth or if there are facial asymmetries, we may use a lower Bite Splint appliance in combination with DOME zero.
The Average Orthodontic Treatment Plan with MARPE
Most people do not just have mouths that are not wide enough and problems with only their upper jaw. If they did, MARPE followed by Invisalign would always be the perfect treatment: First MARPE, followed by Invisalign second. Usually people need 3D growth and will need forward growth, improvements to facial asymmetries and advancement of the lower jaw. Often times use of other expanders such as a Homeoblock or even a jaw surgery such as mandibular advancement are necessary. But what appliance is the best one to do first? Why not do them all at the same time? Get a consultation with Dr. Adams to see what is best for your case. Every case is different.
How does MARPE work?
MARPE is a custom designed expander that is installed onto the palate. The expansion mechanism is turned at a pace that is comfortable and effective. The basic concept is that light pressure gently stimulates bone growth about the palatal suture. Clear braces are usually introduced 4-8 weeks after the MARPE to avoid opening up large spaces between the upper front teeth.
We use a Slow/Biological expansion protocol vs rapid to avoid adverse effects on bones in the face, cranium or spine from becoming compressed, stuck and misaligned. Slow expansion is also more comfortable.
For people who clench and grind and who have tension in the neck, back and headaches, MARPE and the high expansion pressure comes with more risk.
