Mia Orthodontics Offers MARPE Alternative to Jaw Surgery for Houston Adults

Mia Orthodontics, a Houston-based practice led by board-certified orthodontist Dr. Alireza Hourfar, is now offering miniscrew-assisted rapid palatal expansion (MARPE) for adults with narrow palates whose upper jaw has already fused. Traditionally, such patients faced jaw surgery as the primary structural option, but MARPE provides a less invasive alternative. The practice is conducting evaluations for adults with narrow palates, crossbite, crowding, or airway concerns who may be candidates for the device.

Unlike conventional palate expanders designed for growing children, MARPE palate expanders in Houston TX are engineered to address the fused mid-palatal suture found in older teenagers and adults. The device is anchored directly to the palate using small titanium miniscrews, also called temporary anchorage devices (TADs), which apply force precisely at the suture to gradually widen the upper jaw. Because the hardware is fixed to bone, the expansion mechanics work differently than traditional appliances, making it possible to separate a palate seam that has already closed. Dr. Hourfar evaluates patients for MARPE when clinical findings point to a structurally narrow upper jaw, such as posterior crossbite, significant dental crowding, or nasal airway narrowing. The evaluation assesses skeletal development, palatal fusion, and bite relationship to determine candidacy.

The use of TADs at Mia Orthodontics extends beyond palatal expansion. Mini implant assisted orthodontics in Houston TX encompasses a range of tooth movement applications where TADs serve as fixed anchorage points, enabling movements that would otherwise require patient compliance with headgear or could cause unintended shifting of anchor teeth. For adults who have been told their bite issues require orthognathic surgery, an evaluation for MARPE may clarify whether a surgical approach is necessary or whether skeletal expansion through mini implant assisted orthodontics can address the structural component of treatment. Dr. Hourfar's role as an orthodontist for adults in Houston TX means the practice regularly works through these case-specific determinations with patients who were not candidates for simpler appliances earlier in life. Mia Orthodontics is located at 3636 Greenbriar Dr. Ste A-101, Houston, TX, and can be reached at (281) 661-2789.