MSE / MARPE Treatment

At Orthodontic Harmony in Briarcliff Manor, NY, we specialize in advanced orthodontic solutions for patients with complex needs—including those who may have been told they are no longer candidates for jaw expansion. One of our most innovative tools is MSE/MARPE, a powerful, non-surgical approach to correcting narrow upper jaws in both adults and teens.

Led by board-certified orthodontist Dr. Tracy Li Cheung, our practice is known for thinking outside the box and offering solutions that work when traditional orthodontics fall short.

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What Is MSE / MARPE?

MSE (Maxillary Skeletal Expander) and MARPE (Mini-implant Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion) are advanced devices designed to widen the upper jaw (maxilla) in patients with skeletal constriction. This condition can cause:

  • Crossbites

  • Crowded teeth

  • Airway obstruction or snoring

  • Facial asymmetry

  • A narrow or high-arched palate

Unlike traditional expanders that rely solely on dental anchorage (and are often ineffective in adults), MSE/MARPE uses mini-implants (TADs) anchored into the palate to apply direct force to the skeletal bone. This makes it possible to successfully expand the upper jaw even after growth is complete—without the need for jaw surgery.

Who Is a Candidate?

This technique is especially valuable for adult patients and teens who have missed the ideal timing for traditional expansion. We use advanced 3D imaging to assess your jaw structure and determine if you’re a good candidate.

Common signs you might benefit from MSE/MARPE:

  • Crowded upper arch

  • Crossbite or narrow smile

  • Difficulty breathing through the nose

  • History of snoring or sleep-disordered breathing

  • Jaw imbalance or asymmetry

  • Past orthodontic relapse with a constricted arch

Why Adults Choose MSE

Adults are often told they’re “too old” for jaw expansion and must undergo surgical procedures to achieve the desired results. At Orthodontic Harmony, that’s not always the case.

With MSE/MARPE, we can:

  • Expand the jaw non-surgically in many adult patients

  • Improve breathing and airway function

  • Correct dental and skeletal asymmetries

  • Reduce the need for tooth extractions or jaw surgery

  • Create space for better alignment and long-term stability

This technique is one of the most transformative treatments we offer—especially for adults who have struggled with relapse, crowding, or compromised airway function.

Our Expertise with Skeletal Expansion

Dr. Cheung is highly experienced in skeletal anchorage techniques and known for treating complex cases that other practices often refer out. Using 3D planning and precision-guided mini-implant placement, we offer a safer, more accurate approach to maxillary expansion for patients of all ages.

We take the time to evaluate your bone structure, growth patterns, and airway health before recommending treatment—ensuring every decision is backed by science and tailored to your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Both are skeletal expansion devices. MSE is a type of MARPE that uses four mini-implants, which can be a good option for teens and young adults. MARPE appliances use 6-8 mini implants, which can be a good option for adults.

Some pressure is expected during activation, but most patients report only mild discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relief is usually sufficient.

Yes, some adult patients respond well to non-surgical expansion with MSE, especially when properly planned and anchored with mini-implants.

Active expansion typically lasts 2–3 months, followed by several months of stabilization while the bone remodels.

Yes, in many cases, expanding the upper jaw can improve nasal airflow and reduce symptoms of airway obstruction, especially in adults with narrow palates.

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