A maxillary skeletal expander (MSE) is an orthodontic appliance that is used to widen the upper jaw. It is a type of rapid palatal expansion (RPE) appliance, which means that it can expand the jawbone itself, as opposed to simply moving the teeth.
MSE treatment is typically used to correct a condition called ‘maxillary transverse deficiency’, which is a narrowing of the upper jaw. This can cause a number of problems, including:
Crossbite, which is a misalignment of the teeth where the upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth.
Crowding, which is when the teeth are too close together.
Speech problems, such as difficulty pronouncing certain sounds.
MSE treatment can also be used to improve the alignment of the teeth and the bite and to create more space for wisdom teeth to erupt.
How Does MSE Treatment Work?
MSE treatment works by applying a gentle force to the palate, which causes the two halves of the upper jaw to separate. This force is applied by a series of screws that are attached to the appliance. The screws are turned gradually over a period of time, which allows the jawbone to expand slowly and gradually.
The MSE appliance is made of a metal frame that is custom-made to fit the patient’s mouth. The frame is attached to the back teeth in the upper jaw using brackets and wires. The screws are located in the center of the appliance.
To activate the MSE appliance, the patient turns the screws using a special key. The amount of force that is applied to the palate is determined by the number of turns that the patient makes. The screws are typically turned once or twice a day.
MSE Treatment Timeline
MSE treatment typically takes 4-6 months to complete. However, the exact timeline will vary depending on the patient’s individual needs.
During the first few weeks of treatment, the patient may experience some discomfort as the jawbone expands. However, this discomfort is usually mild and goes away on its own.
After the MSE appliance is removed, the patient will need to wear retainers to keep the jawbone in its expanded position. The retainers will typically be worn for 12-18 months.
MSE Treatment Risks and Complications
MSE treatment is generally a safe and effective procedure. However, there are some potential risks and complications, including:
Pain or discomfort.
Irritation of the gums or tongue.
Temporary tooth movement.
Infection.
In rare cases, MSE treatment can also lead to more serious complications, such as damage to the teeth or jawbone. However, these complications are very rare.
Who is a Good Candidate for MSE Treatment?
MSE treatment is typically recommended for patients who have a narrow upper jaw and who are experiencing problems such as crossbite, crowding, or speech problems. MSE treatment is also a good option for patients who are nearing the end of their growth spurt, as this will allow the jawbone to expand more easily.
However, MSE treatment is not recommended for all patients. For example, MSE treatment should not be used in patients who have a history of jawbone surgery or who have any underlying medical conditions that could be affected by the procedure.
Conclusion
MSE treatment is a safe and effective way to widen the upper jaw. It can be used to correct a number of problems, including crossbite, crowding, and speech problems. MSE treatment is typically recommended for patients who are nearing the end of their growth spurt.
At Royal Dental Care, our team of expert orthodontists and dentists can help you determine is MSE treatment is right for you and get started with your transformation. If you are considering MSE treatment, book a Free Consult with us today.
