Rapid Maxillary Expansion

The aim of this prospective clinical study is to evaluate and compare the changes in occlusal force distribution using a quantitative digital occlusal analysis system following piezocision-assisted rapid maxillary expansion (RME) in adolescent versus young adult orthodontic patients. The study hypothesis is that piezocision-assisted RME will result in significant changes in occlusal force distribution and that these outcomes may differ between age groups over a 3-month follow-up period.

At the beginning of MARPE treatment (T1) and at the end of the 3-month consolidation phase (T2), patients will complete the teen-STOP-BANG questionnaire and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) to assess the potential benefit of MARPE in reducing the risk of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS). Additionally, changes in the upper airway will be evaluated using CBCT images obtained at T1 and T2.