title: Orthodontic or surgically assisted rapid maxillary expansion.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The purpose of this study was to present, compare, and discuss the techniques for rapid maxillary expansion.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The isolated transverse maxillary deficiency can be treated either orthodontically or surgically with rapid palatal expansion. In children and adolescents, conventional orthodontic rapid maxillary expansion has been successful when used before sutural closure. On the other hand, in skeletally mature patients, the possibility of successful maxillary expansion decreases as sutures close and the resistance to mechanical forces increases.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The selection of an expansion technique depends on a number of factors. It is more likely to advocate surgery as the patient's age, transverse needs, or acceptance of the idea of surgery increases.
authors: brunochrcanovic@hotmail.com
authors: Bruno Ramos
authors: BR
authors: Chrcanovic
authors: Antônio Luís Neto
authors: AL
authors: Custódio
mesh_terms: D000367:Age Factors; D000766:Anesthesia, Dental / Q000379:methods; D003393:Cranial Sutures / Q000254:growth & development; D006801:Humans; D008437:Maxilla / Q000601:surgery*; D009967:Orthodontic Appliances; D056948:Orthognathic Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D019857:Osteogenesis, Distraction; D019340:Osteotomy, Le Fort / Q000295:instrumentation; D010155:Palatal Expansion Technique; D011183:Postoperative Complications