MARPE in Meridian, ID

What Is MARPE?

MARPE (Mini-implant Assisted Rapid Palatal Expander) is an advanced orthodontic appliance used to expand the upper jaw using mini-implants anchored directly into the palate.

This approach is especially beneficial for patients who may otherwise require treatment for complex orthodontic cases involving surgical correction.

Why Use The MARPE Appliance?

The MARPE expander (short for Mini-implant Assisted Rapid Palatal Expander) is a powerful tool used to widen the upper jaw by gently applying force through mini-screws anchored in the palate. At Aesthetic Smiles Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we use a custom 3D-printed metal MARPE appliance with a Tiger Power Screw to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and comfort during treatment.

Palatal expansion through the MARPE can:

• Improve how your upper and lower teeth fit together
• Create space for crowded teeth
• Reduce dark corners of the smile (buccal corridors)
• Enhance your airway and potentially improve breathing
• Improve symptoms of OSA (obstructive Sleep Apnea)
• Support long-term bite stability and facial balance

Patients experiencing airway concerns may also benefit from our sleep apnea treatment options.

Advanced, Nonsurgical Orthodontic Approach

At Aesthetic Smiles, Dr. Jordan Pilling focuses on nonsurgical orthodontic solutions whenever possible. Learn more about his background and expertise on our Meet the Doctors page.

With over 16 years of advanced training through FORCE (International Faculté for Orthodontic Research and Continuing Education), he uses MARPE and other mini-implant-assisted techniques to treat the root causes of jaw underdevelopment, malocclusion, and airway restriction.

For patients with severe skeletal discrepancies requiring full maxillofacial surgery, we coordinate care with trusted specialists while managing your orthodontic treatment.

How MARPE Works

1. Consultation and diagnostics using advanced imaging such as digital X-rays
2. Custom MARPE appliance placement
3. Gradual expansion phase
4. Transition into braces or clear aligners for full alignment

MARPE Activation Instructions

Activation Overview

Every patient’s expansion protocol is customized. At your appointment, we provided specific instructions tailored to your case. Please follow those directions exactly — including how many “faces” to turn each day and for how long.

We use a Tiger Power Screw with a hexagonal design. Each full turn (6 faces) equals 1 mm of palatal expansion. Each face is approximately 0.17 mm. This allows us to achieve extremely precise movement.

You’ll activate your MARPE appliance using a small wrench provided to you at your appointment.

Step-by-Step Activation Guide

• Use the wrench provided. Insert it into the hex slot in the middle of the Tiger Power Screw until it’s fully seated.
• Turn the wrench in the direction indicated by your orthodontist (typically toward the back of your mouth).
• One face of the hex = 0.17 mm. You may be instructed to turn one or more per week, depending on your specific plan.
• Only turn as instructed — more is not better, and turning incorrectly may cause discomfort or severe complications.
• Do not reverse the turn. Always remove the wrench carefully in the same direction of movement.
• Weekly photo checks are submitted to the office to monitor expansion remotely.

Managing Discomfort and Oral Hygiene

Managing Discomfort and Medication

Some discomfort, tightness, or pressure is normal during MARPE activation. At your appointment, you may have received a prescription for anti-inflammatory steroids or pain relievers. Please take medications exactly as prescribed to reduce swelling, inflammation, and soreness.

Oral Hygiene During Palatal Expansion

Keeping your appliance clean is essential during treatment. Routine professional dental cleanings can also help support oral health throughout the process.

• Brush around the appliance thoroughly 2x/day
• Use an interdental proxy brush to clean under and around the expander
• Rinse with mouthwash daily
• A Waterpik is highly recommended to flush food from under the appliance

What to Expect with Your MARPE Expander

What’s Normal During Treatment

• Speech changes (e.g., a slight lisp) are normal and temporary
• Tooth and jaw soreness during the first few days of activation is common
• You may feel pressure or tingling in your cheeks, nose, or palate
• Bite may feel “off” during expansion — this will stabilize later
• A gap between your front teeth may appear. This is expected and means the appliance is working

When to Call Us

Please contact our office if you experience:

• Pain that doesn’t improve with medication
• Swelling or redness around the appliance
• A screw (TAD) feels loose or shifts position
• Bleeding, pus, or signs of infection
• Intense nasal pressure, headaches, or sinus discomfort

For urgent concerns, visit our emergency dentist page.

Top Do’s and Don’ts for MARPE Activation

Do:

• Follow the activation instructions given to you exactly
• Use your wrench properly — one face at a time as directed
• Keep the appliance and your teeth very clean
• Take medications as prescribed
• Use a Waterpik and mouthwash daily
• Call us with any concerns

Don’t:

• Skip days or “double up” without our direction
• Turn more than instructed
• Pull the wrench forward when removing it
• Eat sticky, chewy, or crunchy foods
• Ignore signs of irritation, swelling, or loose screws

Breathe Better. Smile Wider. Live Healthier.

Discover a modern, airway-focused approach to orthodontics with MARPE at Aesthetic Smiles. You can also explore our full range of care on our services page.