Provider
Rapid Maxillary Expansion for Growing Smiles
Rapid Maxillary Expansion (RME) is an orthodontic treatment used to widen a narrow upper jaw in children.
Because a child's jaw is still developing, expansion can help create additional space for permanent teeth and prevent the need for more invasive treatments later in life, such as tooth extractions or jaw surgery.
A custom appliance is placed on the upper teeth and gradually widens the upper jaw using gentle, controlled pressure. Early treatment can often address developing orthodontic concerns before they become more complex.
RME may be recommended for:
- Crossbites
- Severe crowding
- Impacted or blocked teeth
- Narrow upper jaws
- Developing bite problems
Early Orthodontics Can Make a Difference
Expanding a narrow upper jaw during childhood can create space for developing teeth and help guide proper jaw growth. An early orthodontic evaluation before the age of 7 can determine whether expansion is appropriate for your child.
Book Consultation
What to Expect with Treatment
Treatment begins with a thorough orthodontic assessment to determine whether expansion is the right option. A custom appliance is then fitted and adjusted according to your child's treatment plan.
Most children adapt quickly to their expander and experience only mild pressure as the jaw widens. Once the desired expansion is achieved, the appliance remains in place for a period of time to allow the jaw to stabilize before the next stage of treatment.
Here are some common questions our patients ask about Rapid Maxillary Expansion appliances:
-
Does an expander hurt?
Most children feel pressure rather than pain, especially during the first few days and after adjustments.
-
Will speech be affected?
Speech may sound different initially, but children typically adapt quickly.
-
Is Rapid Maxillary Expansion safe?
Yes. RME has been used successfully for decades and is considered a safe and effective treatment for growing children when supervised by an orthodontist.
-
How long is treatment?
The active expansion phase usually lasts several weeks, followed by a stabilization period that may last several months.