Maxillary Skeletal Expansion with the Assistance of Ortho Implants: A Clinical Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: The maxillary skeletal expander (MSE) with the assistance of ortho implants is used to perform rapid palatal expansion in patients who are no longer growing. This case report describes a 15-year-old boy with a bilateral posterior crossbite caused by transverse maxillary deficiency. Methods: A 10-mm MSE was placed with four ortho implants. The MSE was activated once per day for 20 days. Subsequently, a fixed appliance (MBT) was placed as corrective treatment. Results: An approximate expansion of 8 mm was achieved using the MSE. The posterior crossbite was corrected by increasing the transverse dimensions of the maxilla. An adequate inter-arch relationship similar to the class I molar and canine relationships was achieved, as were a 2-mm overjet and 2-mm overbite. Conclusions: The use of the MSE with the assistance of ortho implants is an alternative method of treatment that can be beneficial for patients who are no longer growing. This method avoids the use of surgical expansion and is less invasive, more economical, and more comfortable for the patient.