Maxillary Skeletal Expansion

TL;DR:
MSE offers a minimally invasive, non-surgical way for adults and teens to widen their upper jaw, improve breathing, and create space for a healthier smile.

A Breakthrough in Adult Expansion and Airway-Focused Dentistry

At Designing Smiles, we’re proud to offer one of the most advanced options in adult orthodontics and airway treatment—Minimally Invasive Maxillary Skeletal Expansion (MSE). Led by Dr. Fung, a pioneer in airway-centric dental care in Roseville, Minnesota, our team brings you life-changing solutions for narrow palates, breathing issues, facial asymmetry, and more—without the need for invasive jaw surgery.

What Is MSE?

MSE (also known as Miniscrew-Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion or MARPE) is an innovative, non-surgical method to expand the upper jaw (maxilla) in teens and adults. Traditional expanders typically rely on the teeth for anchorage, but MSE uses four Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs)—tiny, biocompatible screws placed in the palate—to anchor the appliance directly to the bone.

This allows Dr. Fung to achieve true skeletal expansion at the midpalatal suture, which leads to improved nasal airflow, enhanced facial harmony, and increased space for crowded teeth.

Benefits of MSE

– Improved nasal breathing and airflow
– Non-surgical option for adult skeletal expansion
– Corrects crossbites and crowding at the skeletal level
– Helps treat obstructive sleep apnea and snoring
– Widens smile and improves facial aesthetics
– Can reduce TMJ discomfort and muscle tension
– Often complements other airway or orthodontic treatments

Who Is a Candidate for MSE?

MSE is ideal for:

– Teens and adults who are no longer candidates for traditional palate expanders
– Patients with narrow upper jaws or crossbites
– Individuals suffering from sleep-disordered breathing or nasal obstruction
– Adults preparing for orthognathic (jaw) surgery who need transverse correction
– Those experiencing chronic mouth breathing, snoring, or daytime fatigue

Dr. Fung typically recommends MSE for patients between the ages of 15 to 30, though adults over 30 may still be eligible with surgical assistance such as DOME or piezoelectric midpalatal suture release.

MSE vs Traditional Expanders vs Surgical Options

How the MSE Process Works at Designing Smiles

1. 3D Imaging & Planning
   We start with a low-radiation 3D CBCT scan to assess bone structure and airway volume.
2. Custom Appliance Design
   A digitally designed and 3D-printed MSE appliance is custom-fitted to your palate.
3. Anchoring with TADs
   Four small screws (TADs) are gently placed into the palate to anchor the device—minimally invasive and performed in-office.
4. At-Home Activation
   You’ll turn the appliance gradually over 2–4 weeks under Dr. Fung’s guidance to open the suture and expand the jaw.
5. Retention & Orthodontics
   Once full expansion is achieved, the device remains in place for 9–12 months while the bone stabilizes. We then begin orthodontic treatment to align your teeth into their ideal positions.

What to Expect During MSE

The MSE procedure is quick, in-office, and performed under local anesthetic. Most patients report mild pressure or tightness during activation, followed by relief as the jaw expands and breathing improves. You’ll receive detailed guidance and ongoing support from Dr. Fung and our team every step of the way.

Why Choose Dr. Deborah Fung at Designing Smiles?

Dr. Fung is a respected leader in airway-focused orthodontics and functional dental treatment. Her expertise in early intervention, skeletal expansion, and minimally invasive solutions means patients at Designing Smiles receive care that’s not only modern—but life changing.

Located in the heart of Minnesota, our team is passionate about helping patients achieve better breathing, better sleep, and better overall health through innovative techniques like MSE.

Schedule Your Consultation

If you've been told you’re not a candidate for traditional expansion or you’re seeking relief from snoring, fatigue, or jaw pain—Minimally Invasive MSE may be the solution. Let’s talk about your airway health and long-term options.

👉 Call Designing Smiles today or request your consultation online.