What is MSE/MARPE Orthodontics and How Does It Work?
MSE (Maxillary Skeletal Expander) and MARPE (Mini-Implant Assisted Rapid Palatal Expander) are advanced orthodontic appliances designed to expand the upper jaw (maxilla) at the skeletal level. These modern techniques provide a non-surgical alternative for patients—especially adults—who need more space in their upper jaw due to narrow arches, crossbites, or airway issues.
Unlike traditional palatal expanders that rely on dental anchorage, MSE and MARPE devices are anchored directly into the palate using small temporary mini-implants (TADs). These mini-implants engage the mid-palatal suture, which allows for true skeletal expansion. By widening the upper jaw at the bone level, patients can achieve more stable, dramatic results without jaw surgery.
MSE is a specific type of MARPE device, typically used in adult patients with more resistance in the mid-palatal suture. Both appliances are customized for each patient and typically activated at home over a period of days or weeks, under the supervision of Dr. Fanelli.
Can Adults Get MSE/MARPE Expansion?
Yes—MSE and MARPE were developed specifically with older teens and adults in mind. Traditional expanders are most effective in younger patients because the mid-palatal suture is still soft and flexible. However, after puberty, this suture begins to fuse, making non-surgical expansion more challenging.
MSE and MARPE solve this problem by applying expansion forces directly to the skeletal structure rather than the teeth. The use of mini-implants allows adults to achieve significant expansion without jaw surgery in many cases. This makes the treatment ideal for:
- Adults with narrow palates
- Patients with crowded teeth
- Individuals experiencing airway or breathing issues
- Those who prefer a non-surgical solution to widen their upper jaw
Adult patients can achieve life-changing results with MSE and MARPE expansion, and we’ve seen this firsthand with many of our cases. Below, you’ll find two examples from our practice: Zach Allen, who has completed his MARPE treatment and now enjoys a wider, healthier smile with improved facial balance and function; and Tiffany Lowe, who is currently in active treatment and already experiencing positive progress. These images show how MSE/MARPE treatment works in real time—and demonstrate the transformative results possible at any age.
How Long Does Palate Expansion Treatment Take?
The length of palate expansion treatment can vary significantly depending on the patient’s anatomy, age, and the type of expansion protocol used. While some sources describe rapid expansion timelines, Dr. Fanelli follows a slower, more controlled approach for many adult patients to achieve healthier, more stable skeletal results.
With modern skeletal expansion techniques such as MARPE (Mini‑Implant Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion) and MASPE (Mini‑Implant Assisted Slow Palatal Expansion), the active expansion phase typically lasts anywhere from one month to six months. This slower timeline allows the upper jaw to widen gradually using gentle forces rather than sudden pressure.
By expanding at a controlled pace, patients often experience improved comfort, better skeletal response, and a reduced risk of unwanted dental side effects. Following active expansion, the appliance remains in place for a stabilization period to allow new bone to fully mature before continuing with braces or clear aligners.
MASPE (Mini‑Implant Assisted Slow Palatal Expansion) Explained
MASPE (Mini‑screw Assisted Slow Palatal Expansion) is an advanced orthodontic technique commonly used for adults who require skeletal expansion of the upper jaw but prefer a more comfortable and controlled approach.
Unlike rapid expansion methods, MASPE uses mini‑implants (TADs) placed directly into the palate to provide stable anchorage while applying slow, gentle forces over time. This allows the maxilla to widen more naturally and predictably, often eliminating the need for creating a large gap between the front teeth.
How MASPE Works
- Anchorage — Mini‑screws are placed directly into the palatal bone, providing strong, stable support rather than relying solely on the teeth.
- Slow & Gentle Expansion — MASPE uses minimal force and gradual activations over weeks or months, encouraging natural bone formation instead of sudden separation.
- Simultaneous Treatment — MASPE can often be combined with clear aligners or braces, allowing jaw expansion and tooth alignment to occur at the same time for greater efficiency.
Key Benefits of MASPE
- Higher Comfort — Reduced pressure compared to rapid expansion techniques.
- Improved Skeletal Results — Encourages true bone expansion rather than tooth tipping.
- Improved Airway Support — Widening the palate can improve nasal breathing and support airway health.
- Treatment Efficiency — Combining expansion with aligners or braces can shorten total treatment time and help avoid large temporary gaps.
MASPE vs. MARPE
- MASPE (Slow Expansion) — Gradual, more comfortable, better skeletal outcomes, lower risk of dental tipping.
- MARPE (Rapid Expansion) — Faster expansion, higher pressure, increased chance of tooth tipping, and may result in a noticeable temporary gap.
Dr. Fanelli offers MASPE, MARPE, and MSE, and can integrate each approach with clear aligners or braces based on what best supports long‑term stability, comfort, and overall treatment goals.
What is the Difference Between MSE/MARPE/MASPE and Traditional Palatal Expanders?
While both MSE/MARPE/MASPE and traditional palatal expanders aim to widen the upper jaw, there are important differences:
- Age Range — Traditional expanders are best for children and younger teens, while MSE/MARPE/MASPE is effective in older teens and adults.
- Anchorage — Traditional expanders attach to the teeth; MSE and MARPE/MASPE use mini-implants for direct skeletal expansion.
- Treatment Goals — MSE and MARPE/MASPE provides orthopedic (skeletal) changes, while traditional expanders create mostly dental (tooth-level) movement.
- Surgical Need — MSE and MARPE/MASPE can often eliminate the need for jaw surgery in adults with narrow palates.
These differences make MSE and MARPE/MASPE ideal for patients who need significant expansion but are past the age where traditional methods are effective.
Piezo Osteotomy for Advanced Palatal Expansion
In more complex cases, palatal expansion can be further enhanced with a technique known as piezo osteotomy, also referred to as piezocorticotomy. This advanced approach uses ultrasonic vibrations to create precise, minimally invasive cuts in the bone of the palate, helping facilitate separation of the midpalatal suture.
By gently weakening areas of resistance in the bone, piezo osteotomy allows expansion forces from MSE, MARPE, or MASPE to work more predictably and efficiently—especially in adults with denser bone or patients with significant airway concerns. Because ultrasonic energy targets bone while preserving surrounding soft tissue, this technique improves safety, comfort, and healing compared to traditional surgical methods.
When combined with skeletal expanders, piezo osteotomy can enhance expansion success, reduce unwanted dental side effects, and support better airway outcomes. Dr. Fanelli may recommend this approach for patients who require additional assistance achieving skeletal expansion or who present with more advanced anatomical challenges.
What is the Cost of MSE/MARPE/MASPE Palatal Expansion in Kaysville?
The cost of treatment in Kaysville can vary depending on your individual needs and whether this treatment is part of a broader orthodontic plan that includes braces or clear aligners.
In general, treatment ranges from $2,500 to $5,000, with some or all of the cost potentially included in your overall orthodontic treatment plan. Costs can also vary based on:
- Diagnostic imaging (CBCT scans, 3D models)
- The complexity of expansion needed
- The type of device used (MSE, MARPE, or MASPE)
- Insurance coverage or flexible financing options
At Albrechtsen & Fanelli Orthodontics, we offer transparent pricing and personalized payment plans to make this advanced treatment accessible to more patients.
What Are the Benefits of MSE & MARPE/MASPE for Adults?
MSE and MARPE/MASPE aren’t just about creating space for teeth—they offer a wide range of benefits:
- Non-surgical skeletal expansion — No need for jaw surgery in many adult cases
- Improved facial balance — Wider arches often enhance facial harmony
- Better airway function — Expansion can improve nasal breathing and reduce snoring or sleep apnea symptoms
- Space for crowded teeth — May reduce or eliminate the need for extractions
- Stable long-term results — Skeletal changes offer more predictable, lasting outcomes
Am I a Candidate for MSE or MARPE/MASPE?
Not everyone will be a candidate for MSE or MARPE/MASPE. Dr. Fanelli will evaluate your palate structure, dental alignment, and overall health using digital scans and imaging.
You may be a good candidate if you have:
- A narrow upper jaw or high-vaulted palate
- Crowded upper teeth with limited space
- A crossbite or asymmetrical bite
- Airway issues or mouth breathing habits
- No significant bone loss or periodontal disease
A consultation is the best way to determine your eligibility and explore whether MSE/MARPE is the right approach for your goals.
Why Choose Albrechtsen & Fanelli Orthodontics for MSE & MARPE/MASPE?
At Albrechtsen & Fanelli Orthodontics, we’re proud to be one of the few practices in Utah offering advanced palatal expansion treatments like MSE or MARPE/MASPE for adult and teen patients. Our approach combines cutting-edge technology with personalized treatment planning to help each patient achieve optimal airway health, jaw function, and long-term orthodontic stability.
Dr. Fanelli has extensive experience with skeletal expansion, including slow expansion protocols that reduce discomfort while improving long-term results. Whether you’re considering braces or clear aligners, our team has the tools and training to integrate your palate expansion with your overall orthodontic plan.
Because this is a highly specialized service, patients often travel from across Northern Utah to receive treatment at one of our Ogden offices. We proudly serve individuals not just in Kaysville, but also in Utah communities including:
If you’re looking for an experienced provider of MSE, MARPE, or MASPE near Kaysville, you’re in the right place. Our team is here to guide you through every step of your treatment with expertise, comfort, and care.