Non-dental Effects of Rapid Maxillary Expansion in Growing Children: A Literature Review

Maxillary hypoplasia is a common malocclusion associated with various clinical conditions, including upper dental crowding, posterior crossbite, narrow palates or high arches, and class II or III malocclusions. These conditions can also have negative non-dental effects in growing children, such as impaired breathing, reduced airway dimensions, obstructive sleep apnea, otological disorders, altered vocal function, and changes in muscle activity. Appliances used to treat these malocclusions may include rapid maxillary expansion (RME), slow maxillary expansion, or mandibular advancement appliances, whether orthodontic or orthopedic. Many studies in the literature compare these devices and highlight their positive effects from a dental perspective; however, few address the non-dental effects on children's health and quality of life. A thorough and up-to-date review of this literature is essential for healthcare professionals. Therefore, we conducted a comprehensive review to discuss the non-dental effects of RME in pediatric dental patients.