Surgically assisted rapid palatal expansion using a new distraction device: Report of a case with an epimucosal fixation

Surgically assisted rapid palatal expansion (SARPE) is an efficient method for the treatment of transverse maxillary deficiencies in skeletal mature patients. Although this technique has a low morbidity using the traditional orthodontic appliances like Hyrax-screws, this may be accompanied by undesired effects such as buccal tooth tipping or extrusion, gingiva recessions, root resorption, or bone fenestration. Because the appliances are fixed to the teeth, therefore transmitting forces directly on the teeth and supporting bone. These problems will not occur if a bone supported palatal distractor is used.(1,2) The aim of the article is to present a new developed palatal distractor for SARPE with an epimucosal fixation.