Rapid Maxillary Expansion (RME)

Name: Profile Orthodontics
Telephone: 08 9300 9975

At Profile Orthodontics, we offer Rapid Maxillary Expansion (RME) as an early intervention for patients with narrow upper jaws. This gentle, non-surgical treatment can significantly improve dental alignment, bite function, and even breathing in some cases.

What is Rapid Maxillary Expansion?

Rapid Maxillary Expansion (RME) involves a custom-fitted appliance attached to the upper teeth. At the center of this appliance is an expansion screw, which is gradually activated – usually once a day over a period of around 3 weeks.

This gentle activation applies light pressure to the palatal (roof of the mouth) bones, stimulating natural bone growth and gradually widening the upper jaw.

Because children's and adolescents' palatal sutures have not yet fully fused, RME is most effective during these growing years. Early intervention often reduces the need for more invasive procedures later in life.

What to expect during treatment

The full RME process typically lasts 4 to 6 months, which includes both the activation phase and a holding stage to stabilise the expansion. During the first few days or weeks, patients may notice:

Mild discomfort or pressure in the upper jaw
Temporary changes in speech
Increased saliva production

These effects are normal and typically subside as the patient adjusts to the appliance.

Benefits of Rapid Maxillary Expansion

RME offers multiple long-term benefits, particularly when started early:

Improved dental alignment:

By creating more room in the upper arch, RME can help prevent or correct crowding, often reducing the need for tooth extractions before braces or aligners.

Enhanced bite function:

RME is highly effective in correcting crossbites and other malocclusions, allowing the upper and lower teeth to fit together more naturally and functionally.

Preparation for orthodontic treatment:

Expanding the upper jaw creates a stable foundation for future orthodontic treatment, such as braces or clear aligners.

Potential airway improvement

In some patients, widening the upper jaw can also open up the nasal airway, which may improve breathing and reduce issues like snoring or sleep-disordered breathing.

Is RME right for your teen?

Every smile is unique. At Profile Orthodontics, we’ll conduct a comprehensive assessment to determine if RME is the right treatment for your teen. Early diagnosis is key, so if you notice crowding, a crossbite, or breathing concerns, we encourage you to book a consultation.

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