What Is MARPE and What Does It Do?

If you or your child has been told that jaw expansion may be necessary as part of orthodontic or airway treatment, you might have come across a treatment called MARPE. While it may sound complex, MARPE is a safe, effective, and non-surgical way to create space in the upper jaw—often when traditional methods are no longer an option.

In this blog, we’ll explain what MARPE is, how it works, who it’s for, and the many ways it can improve not just your bite—but your breathing, sleep, and long-term health.

What Does MARPE Stand For?

MARPE stands for Minimally Invasive Rapid Palatal Expansion. It’s an orthodontic technique designed to widen the upper jaw (also called the maxilla) in patients whose jawbones have already fused—typically older teens and adults.

In childhood, the bones of the upper jaw are still flexible and separated at the midline, allowing traditional expanders to guide growth. But once skeletal maturity is reached, that mid-palatal suture fuses, and traditional expanders are no longer effective on their own.

That’s where MARPE comes in.

How Does MARPE Work?

The MARPE appliance looks similar to a traditional expander, but with one key difference: it’s anchored directly to the palate using small titanium screws, known as TADs (Temporary Anchorage Devices). These mini-implants provide stability and allow the appliance to apply targeted, controlled force directly to the suture line between the two halves of the upper jaw.

Here’s how treatment typically works:

• Evaluation and imaging — Your orthodontist will take 3D scans and digital models to assess jaw structure and airway space.
• Custom appliance design — A MARPE device is created to fit precisely to your palate.
• Placement — The appliance is gently secured with TADs using local anesthetic.
• Activation — You’ll turn a small key (usually once or twice a day), which gradually applies pressure to widen the jaw over 2–3 weeks.
• Stabilization — After expansion, the appliance stays in place for several months while the new bone stabilizes and sets.

What Does MARPE Do?

MARPE isn’t just about creating space for teeth—it affects multiple aspects of oral and overall health. Here’s what it can do:

1. Widens the Upper Jaw

By separating the fused mid-palatal suture, MARPE increases the width of the upper dental arch. This creates more room for:

• Crowded or overlapping teeth
• Proper bite alignment
• A better balance between the upper and lower jaws

2. Improves Nasal Breathing

The roof of the mouth is also the floor of the nasal cavity. As the palate expands, so does the nasal passage. This helps improve airflow and reduce reliance on mouth breathing, especially during sleep.

Patients often report:

• Less congestion
• Easier breathing through the nose
• Reduction in snoring or sleep-disordered breathin

3. Supports Better Sleep and Airway Health

For patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), MARPE can open the upper airway, reduce resistance, and help restore healthier nighttime breathing. It's often considered as an alternative to CPAP or surgical options for certain patients.

4. Enhances Long-Term Stability

By correcting the skeletal structure—not just the teeth—MARPE supports better long-term orthodontic outcomes and reduces the risk of relapse.

Who Is a Candidate for MARPE?

MARPE is designed for older teens and adults, typically ages 15 and up, who are no longer growing and who have:

• A narrow upper jaw or high-arched palate
• Dental crowding or bite problems like crossbites
• Breathing issues, including chronic mouth breathing or nasal obstruction
• Sleep apnea or symptoms of poor-quality sleep
• Prior orthodontic relapse due to untreated jaw structure
• A desire to avoid jaw surgery or extractions

Not sure if you're a candidate? An orthodontist with airway-focused training can perform imaging and an exam to determine if MARPE is the right fit for your anatomy and goals.

How Long Does MARPE Treatment Take?

MARPE treatment has two phases:

1. Active Expansion (2–3 weeks)

During this phase, you’ll use a small key to turn the expander daily. You may feel pressure or tightness, especially around the nose or cheekbones, but this usually fades quickly after each activation.

2. Stabilization Phase (3–6 months)

Once the desired width is achieved, the appliance stays in place so new bone can form and solidify the changes. During this time, you’ll continue routine check-ins with your orthodontist.

After MARPE, many patients transition to braces or Invisalign to complete their orthodontic treatment and align the teeth within the newly expanded arch.

Is MARPE Painful?

Most patients describe MARPE as causing mild to moderate pressure, especially during the first few days. Common sensations include:

• Tightness or pressure behind the cheeks or nose
• Mild sinus sensitivity
• Occasional headaches or soreness after turning the key

Howeer, pain is typically short-lived and manageable with over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen. Your orthodontic team will provide guidance and support to ensure your comfort throughout the process.

Many patients are surprised by how quickly they adjust—and how much better they breathe and feel once expansion is complete.

What Are the Benefits of MARPE?

MARPE offers a wide range of advantages that go far beyond straight teeth:

• Non-surgical expansion, even in adults
• Improved airflow and reduced nasal obstruction
• Room to align crowded teeth without extractions
• Enhanced jaw and facial balance
• May reduce snoring or sleep apnea symptoms
• Can eliminate the need for orthognathic (jaw) surgery
• Supports proper tongue posture and long-term stability

In short, MARPE is an investment not just in your smile—but in your sleep, health, and quality of life.

Why Choose Bergen Orthodontics for MARPE in Bergen County

At Bergen Orthodontics, we specialize in MARPE and airway-focused orthodontics for teens and adults throughout Bergen County and Northern New Jersey. Our team is known for combining advanced technology, clinical precision, and personalized care to deliver results that go beyond just straight teeth.

Why patients choose Bergen Orthodontics for MARPE:

• Extensive experience with skeletal expansion techniques
• State-of-the-art 3D imaging and airway diagnostics
• Customized treatment plans built for function, aesthetics, and comfort
• Coordination with sleep specialists, ENTs, and referring providers
• Flexible payment plans and insurance support to make care accessible

We believe in treating the root cause—not just the symptoms. Whether you're seeking relief from mouth breathing, sleep apnea, or dental crowding, we’re here to help you breathe better, sleep better, and live better.

Ready to Explore If MARPE Is Right for You?

Contact Bergen Orthodontics to schedule a comprehensive consultation. We’ll evaluate your jaw structure, airway health, and overall goals to determine if MARPE is the right path forward.