Rapid Maxillary Expansion

Correction of a transverse discrepancy usually requires expansion of the palate by a combination of orthopedic and orthodontic tooth movements. Initially transverse forces tip the buccal segments laterally with proper appliance design; third order movements will induce bodily translation. If the force is strong enough separation occurs at the maxillary suture. The amount of orthopedic versus orthodontic changes depends greatly on patient¿s age. What we have seen in these brief sojourns through the neighbourhood of lateral expansion was few of the most commonly used methods and materials called upon by clinicians to effect the widening of dental arches. It is not intended, nor does it profess to be a complete survey of all possible techniques. However the starting line-up of the lateral expansion team has been adequately covered as well as some of the more important diagnostic aids used to assist in proper appliance selection.