Assessment of Maxillary Transverse Deficiency and Treatment Outcomes by Cone Beam Computed Tomography

This chapter discusses the evolution of radiography as a critical tool for assessing the maxillary transverse dimension accurately. Specifically, topics reviewed includes the role of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) radiographs in detailing transverse maxillary growth and development, midpalatal sutural changes as we age, and evidence-based conclusions regarding maxillary expansion treatment. The terms rapid maxillary expansion (RME) and rapid palatal expansion (RPE) often are used interchangeably, although they technically refer to two different treatments. Expansion of the entire maxilla, which is performed surgically, traditionally is referred to as RME, while RPE is used to describe expansion of the palate "only" using a tooth- or tooth-tissue-borne palatal expander. Since the distribution of RPE-generated forces indeed do extend to the entire maxilla and are known to contribute to sutural changes at sites distant from the palate, all expansion treatments are referred to as RME in the chapter.