What Is Rapid Maxillary Expansion?

Rapid Maxillary Expansion, or RME, is used to widen a narrow upper jaw while a child is still growing. It can create more space for developing teeth, correct a crossbite and improve the relationship between the upper and lower dental arches.

How RME Works

A fixed expander is attached to the upper teeth and contains a small mechanism in the centre of the palate. This is activated at home using a special key, following the individual turning schedule provided. As the upper jaw widens, a temporary gap may develop between the front teeth. This is a normal sign of expansion and can be managed during the later tooth-alignment phase.

What to Expect

The appliance may initially affect eating, swallowing and speech, but most children adapt with practice. After the active expansion is complete, it usually remains in place for approximately 4-6 months to allow the result to stabilise.

Combining RME with an Orthopaedic Face mask

Where the upper jaw also needs encouragement to grow forwards, RME may sometimes be combined with an orthopaedic facemask. Expansion can create additional tongue space and may reduce nasal airflow resistance, but it cannot guarantee an improvement in breathing, sleep quality or an underlying medical airway condition.