3D Evaluation of Maxillary Expansion Methods

Maxillary transverse deficiency is a common craniofacial problem that often presents with posterior crossbite and dental crowding. Rapid Maxillary Expansion (RME) achieves sutural separation and bone remodeling, typically activated at 0.5 mm per day. Invisalign® Palatal Expander (IPE) is a modern digital system using 3D printing to produce removable nylon expanders adapted to palatal curvature, with 0.25 mm activations, simplifying oral hygiene and eliminating screw activation.

This controlled prospective clinical trial will recruit 60 children with maxillary transverse deficiency. Participants will be assigned to three groups: IPE (n=20), RME (n=20), and untreated control (n=20). Intraoral scans will be obtained at the end of expansion, at 3 months, and at 6 months to create three-dimensional digital models. Maxillary dental arch widths, first molar angulations, palatal surface areas, and volumes will be measured. Extraoral 3D facial scans will evaluate soft tissue changes, including nasal tip, alar width, and interzygomatic distance.

Statistical analyses will be performed using SPSS, applying t-tests for intra- and inter-group comparisons. The study aims to provide comparative data on a traditional (RME) and a contemporary digital (IPE) maxillary expansion method. No prior studies have directly compared these two techniques in children.

Inclusion criteria

• Children aged 6-12 years
• Good oral hygiene and adequate patient cooperation
• No previous orthodontic expansion treatment

Exclusion criteria

• Systemic diseases affecting growth, bone metabolism, or craniofacial development
• Craniofacial syndromes or congenital anomalies
• Severe behavioral or cooperation problems
• Previous orthodontic or orthopedic maxillary expansion
• Patients undergoing medications that affect bone metabolism