MARPE in Lynnwood, WA
At Lynnwood Orthodontics, we believe in offering the most effective and modern orthodontic solutions for patients of all ages. One of those advanced options is MARPE—a non-surgical, highly specialized treatment used to widen the upper jaw (maxilla) in teens and adults who experience narrow arches, crowding, or airway issues.
Led by Dr. Cindy Fan, our experienced team uses MARPE when traditional expanders may not be effective, especially in older patients where the growth plates have fused. If you’ve been told jaw surgery is your only option for correction, MARPE could offer a less invasive alternative with powerful results.
What Is MARPE?
MARPE stands for Mini-Implant Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion. It’s a type of skeletal expansion used to widen a narrow upper jaw when traditional expanders are no longer effective due to the maturation of the mid-palatal suture. This treatment is most commonly recommended for late teens and adults who have completed most of their facial growth.
Unlike conventional expanders that rely on pressure against the teeth, MARPE uses tiny temporary anchorage devices (TADs)—also known as mini-screws—placed in the palate to anchor the appliance directly to the jawbone. This allows for true skeletal expansion, not just dental tipping, and leads to more stable, long-term outcomes.
Who Needs MARPE?
A narrow upper jaw can lead to more than just a crowded smile. It may also affect your bite, facial symmetry, and breathing. MARPE is often recommended for patients who:
- Experience significant crowding due to a narrow arch
- Have crossbites or underdeveloped upper jaws
- Suffer from airway problems or nasal obstruction
- Have difficulty with proper tongue posture or oral function
- Have been told jaw surgery is the only way to correct width issues
If you’ve already passed the optimal age for traditional palatal expansion, MARPE may be the next best step—especially if you’re seeking non-surgical alternatives to improve function and aesthetics.
How Does MARPE Work?
The MARPE process is highly customized and involves multiple phases, all carried out with precision and care at Lynnwood Orthodontics. Here’s what to expect:
- Initial Consultation — Dr. Cindy Fan will perform a detailed evaluation including 3D imaging to assess jaw structure and determine if MARPE is right for you.
- Custom Appliance Design — We’ll design a MARPE appliance that includes an expansion screw and four small TADs that will temporarily anchor the appliance to the palate.
- Placement — The appliance is placed in-office using local anesthesia for comfort. The TADs are gently inserted into the bone in the roof of the mouth.
- Activation Phase — Over the next few weeks, you or a caregiver will turn the expansion screw daily. This slowly and safely widens the upper jaw by separating the mid-palatal suture.
- Retention Phase — Once the desired expansion is achieved, the appliance remains in place for several months to allow new bone to stabilize in the expanded position.
This process is generally well tolerated and far less invasive than surgical expansion, especially for patients who would otherwise require orthognathic surgery.
Benefits of MARPE Treatment
MARPE offers many benefits for teens and adults who need skeletal jaw expansion but are not candidates for traditional devices:
- Non-surgical alternative to jaw surgery
- Improves airway — may reduce snoring or breathing issues
- Reduces crowding by creating space naturally
- Corrects crossbites and improves bite alignment
- Improves facial balance and symmetry
- Long-term stability due to bone-based movement
- Minimal discomfort and downtime
In many cases, MARPE can transform both the function and appearance of the smile—without the need for invasive procedures.
MARPE vs. Traditional Palatal Expansion
While traditional expanders are effective for younger children, they become less predictable after the mid-palatal suture fuses—typically around age 14–16. Here’s a breakdown of how MARPE compares:
- Age Range
— Traditional: Best for ages 7–14
— MARPE: Best for older teens and adults - Mechanism
— Traditional: Pushes against teeth
— MARPE: Anchored to bone for true skeletal movement - Effectiveness
— Traditional: Less effective after suture fusion
— MARPE: Predictable results regardless of age - Stability
— Traditional: May relapse without retention
— MARPE: More stable due to bone remodeling
What to Expect During Recovery
MARPE treatment typically involves minimal downtime. Most patients report only mild pressure or discomfort during the initial days of activation. Common sensations include:
- Pressure in the roof of the mouth or nasal area
- Slight tingling or soreness in the cheeks or teeth
- Temporary lisp or speech changes
Over-the-counter pain relief and a soft diet can help manage any discomfort. After the activation phase, the appliance stays in place to allow healing and bone stabilization.
Why Choose Lynnwood Orthodontics?
When it comes to advanced treatments like MARPE, experience and precision matter. At Lynnwood Orthodontics, Dr. Cindy Fan is trained in the latest orthodontic technologies and takes a conservative, personalized approach to every case.
Here’s why patients trust us with their complex treatment needs:
- 3D digital imaging for precise diagnosis
- Customized MARPE appliances designed for comfort and effectiveness
- Collaborative care with oral surgeons when needed
- Compassionate team that explains every step clearly
- Convenient location and flexible scheduling in Lynnwood, WA
We’re here to help you breathe better, smile brighter, and enjoy a healthier bite—without unnecessary surgery.