Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 15, 2026
07:16
Finite Element Analysis Model for Assessing Expansion Patterns from Surgically Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion
Published on: October 20, 2023
Longitudinal effects of rapid maxillary expansion
Daniela Gamba Garib1, José Fernando Castanha Henriques, Paulo Eduardo Guedes Carvalho
1Department of Orthodontics, University of São Paulo City, Brazil. dgarib_boston@hotmail.com
The Angle Orthodontist
|May 1, 2007
Summary
Long-term effects of rapid maxillary expansion (RME) show no lasting impact on sagittal or vertical facial dimensions. Cephalometric changes after RME are temporary, alleviating concerns for patients with vertical growth patterns.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics
- Craniofacial development
Background:
- Rapid maxillary expansion (RME) is a common orthodontic procedure.
- Concerns exist regarding the long-term stability of RME effects, particularly in the sagittal and vertical facial planes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the long-term effects of rapid maxillary expansion (RME) using banded expanders on sagittal and vertical facial dimensions.
Main Methods:
- A sample of 25 patients undergoing RME followed by orthodontic therapy was compared to a control group (25 patients with orthodontics only) and a non-treatment group (26 subjects).
- Lateral cephalograms were analyzed at three time points: before treatment, end of treatment, and 3 years post-treatment, covering an average 5-year observation period.
Main Results:
- Long-term RME treatment did not significantly alter the sagittal position of the apical jaw bases.
- The facial vertical dimension remained unaffected by RME in the long term.
Conclusions:
- Immediate post-RME cephalometric changes are transient.
- Concerns about RME's long-term effects on patients with vertical growth patterns or convex facial profiles are not supported by the findings.
