The Rapid Maxillary Expander

A Rapid Maxillary Expander (RME) is for patients whose upper jaw is narrow. It gently widens the upper arch (palate) by stretching the center palatal connective suture. Once widened, the suture knits together. The Rapid Maxillary Expander is prescribed only prior to completion of growth. A parent or the patient adjusts the Rapid Maxillary Expander daily as instructed, until the palate has been widened enough. It is then left in place for about four months without further adjustment while new bone fills the center palatal suture or healing occurs.

Before the Rapid Maxillary Expander feels comfortable, the patient may sense some initial pressure and expect:

• To feel a tingling or itch under the expander
• To feel a tingling sensation across the bridge of the nose
• To feel pressure in the check area
• To see a space appear between your upper two front teeth

A special key is used to activate the Rapid Maxillary Expander:

• Loop the string on the key around your finger or wrist to prevent the possibility of it being swallowed
• Insert the key in its slot, it will not touch the roof of the mouth.
• Push the key all the way from front to back
• Remove the key
• Turn as your have been instructed

Remember, when brushing:

• Use a Proxabrush and regular toothbrush
• Brush as usual
• Use water rinse to flush under the expander

If you have any questions, contact us at our orthodontic office Wausau at (800) 258-5688.