CUSTOM MARPE
Non-surgical jaw expansion for better breathing, a wider smile, and life-changing results.
A BREAKTHROUGH IN JAW EXPANSION
MARPE (Miniscrew-Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion) is an advanced orthodontic procedure that widens the upper jaw without surgery. Using small titanium posts anchored directly into the palatal bone, MARPE applies gentle, controlled force to separate the mid-palatal suture — achieving true skeletal expansion even in adults.
For years, adults with narrow upper jaws were told surgery was their only option. MARPE has changed that, making it possible to expand the jaw, open the airway, and create a wider, healthier smile — all in a routine office visit.
WHY CUSTOM MARPE MATTERS
Every jaw is different. That's why Dr. Durschlag designs each MARPE appliance specifically for your anatomy — not a one-size-fits-all approach.
3D CBCT-Guided Design
Your appliance is virtually designed from your 3D CBCT scan, ensuring precise post placement based on your unique bone anatomy.
Custom 3D-Printed Precision
Each device is custom 3D-printed to fit your palate perfectly — maximizing comfort, stability, and expansion effectiveness. Custom fabrication also ensures a safer, more precise post placement.
Higher Success Rates
Research shows custom MARPE achieves greater skeletal expansion with higher predictability — especially in adults and older teens with mature bone.
Less Tooth Tipping
Because force goes directly to bone — not teeth — custom MARPE produces true skeletal expansion with minimal unwanted dental side effects. This means little to no pushing on the fragile gum tissue and prevention of gum recession.
OPENS YOUR AIRWAY
Your upper jaw and nasal cavity share the same bone. When the jaw is narrow, the nasal passages are narrow too — restricting airflow and making it harder to breathe, especially at night.
MARPE widens the jaw and with it the nasal cavity, reducing nasal resistance in a high percentage of patients. For patients struggling with nasal breathing due specifically to a narrow passage, the results can be transformative.
3D CBCT scans showing skeletal expansion of the maxilla and nasal cavity
SKIP THE OPERATING ROOM
For adults with a narrow jaw, surgical expansion (SARPE) used to be the standard recommendation. MARPE has changed that — offering comparable results without the invasive procedure.
PREDICTABLE & SUCCESSFUL
A 2024 scoping review of 75 studies concluded that MARPE is a "viable and superior alternative" to traditional expansion in adults, showing high efficacy with reduced complications and improved stability. Research published in the European Journal of Orthodontics reported a mean success rate of 92.5% with significant skeletal width increases.
At San Diego Smile Pros, Dr. Durschlag's custom approach — with CBCT-guided design and custom 3D-printed precision — pushes these outcomes even further. Every appliance is tailored to your anatomy for maximum predictability.
REAL RESULTS
Actual cases from San Diego Smile Pros — before and after custom MARPE treatment.
Skeletal Expansion — 3D CBCT Imaging
BEFORE
AFTER
Case 1 — Visible widening of the mid-face and nasal cavity
BEFORE
AFTER
Case 2 — Dramatic skeletal expansion of the maxilla and nasal floor
Custom Appliance — Intraoral Views
BEFORE
APPLIANCE IN
Case 1 — Custom 6-post MARPE fitted to patient anatomy
BEFORE
APPLIANCE IN
Case 2 — Custom 6-post design, lab-precision fit
BEFORE
APPLIANCE IN
Case 3 — Custom 6-post design for optimal force distribution
BEFORE
APPLIANCE IN
Case 4 — Custom 6-post design, expansion screw at palatal suture
CHANGING THE GAME
MARPE is reshaping what's possible in orthodontics. Conditions that once required invasive jaw surgery can now be treated in a single office visit. Adults who were told "nothing can be done" finally have a solution.
- True skeletal expansion — even in fully-grown adults
- Addresses both dental and airway concerns simultaneously
- Recommended as a standard procedure by leading researchers
- Reduces the need for tooth extractions in crowded cases
- Improves facial symmetry and smile aesthetics
CONDITIONS MARPE CAN ADDRESS
Narrow Upper Jaw
Maxillary transverse deficiency causing bite problems and restricted nasal breathing.
Crossbite
Upper teeth fitting inside the lower teeth instead of outside — corrected through skeletal expansion.
Breathing Difficulties
In some cases, mouth breathing and reduced airflow from a constricted nasal cavity.
Snoring & Sleep Apnea
Expanding the airway can significantly reduce snoring and improve sleep apnea symptoms in some cases.
Dental Crowding
Creating space in the arch to align teeth properly — often avoiding the need for extractions.
Dark Buccal Corridors
Those dark spaces at the sides of your smile — widening the jaw fills them in for a fuller, wider smile.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Consultation & 3D Imaging
We'll assess your jaw, airway, and bite using our intraoral scanner and 3D CBCT. If MARPE is right for you, we'll take detailed measurements.
Custom Design
Dr. Durschlag works with a specialist technician to virtually design your expander based on your CBCT anatomy. It's then custom 3D-printed using a metal printer.
Placement
Your custom MARPE is placed during a routine office visit with local numbing. No surgery, no hospital, no general anesthesia.
At-Home Activation
Over the next couple of months, you'll make simple adjustments at home — gently and gradually widening the jaw.
Stabilization & Completion
The device stays in place for several months while the bone adapts. During this time, you can begin braces or Invisalign. Once set, the expander is removed.
YOUR SPECIALIST
Dr. Matthew Durschlag is a board-certified orthodontist — a distinction achieved by only about half of all orthodontists. This certification from the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) represents the highest standard in the specialty, requiring years of preparation, rigorous examinations, and demonstrated clinical excellence.
With advanced training in MARPE, 3D digital planning, and airway-focused orthodontics, Dr. Durschlag brings specialized expertise to every custom expansion case at San Diego Smile Pros.
FREQUENTLY ASKED
Is MARPE painful?
Most patients report mild to moderate pressure and soreness during the initial activation days. Usually within the first week, patients report complete resolution of most discomfort. The procedure itself uses local numbing, and any discomfort is typically managed with over-the-counter pain medication. It's far less invasive than surgical alternatives.
Am I too old for MARPE?
MARPE is specifically designed for adults and older teens whose palatal sutures have begun to fuse. Success rates are highest in patients through their 20s and 30s, but it is routinely used successfully in older patients as well. A CBCT scan helps Dr. Durschlag assess your candidacy.
Can you see the MARPE device?
No — the device is fitted to the roof of your mouth and is completely hidden. You'll be able to see it in the mirror for your daily adjustments, but no one else will notice it.
Will MARPE help with my breathing?
Yes — research consistently shows that MARPE significantly increases nasal airway volume and reduces nasal resistance. Many patients report dramatically improved nasal breathing, reduced snoring, and better sleep quality.
How long does the whole process take?
Active expansion takes a couple of months. The device then stays in place for several months while the bone stabilizes. During this retention phase, you can start braces or Invisalign. Total MARPE-specific time is about 6-9 months.
Is the expansion permanent?
Yes. After the retention period allows the bone to fully consolidate, the expansion is highly stable and permanent. This is one of the key advantages of true skeletal expansion over dental-only approaches.
READY TO BREATHE EASIER AND SMILE WIDER?
Schedule your consultation with Dr. Durschlag to find out if custom MARPE is right for you.
BOOK YOUR CONSULTATIONOr call or text us at (619) 291-5266
