Miniscrew-assisted rapid palatal expansion (MARPE) has added a new dimension to the world of orthodontics with its use in skeletal expansion of transverse problems in adult population. However, there are few limitations noted with the use of prefabricated MARPE designs such as adaptation to the palate or minscrew fit in cases of high arched palate, which compromises with the anchorage and final outcome. The aim of this article is to use digital workflow to 3d print a MARPE with the aid of cone beam computed tomography, which would overcome the deficiencies of a prefabricated MARPE design and would provide greater rigidity and anchorage value, and predictable skeletal expansion.
Digital technologies are progressing with leaps and bounds and the field of orthodontics is not untouched by it, with innovations like intraoral scanners and 3D printers being easy to own and maintain and increased availability of biocompatible 3D printing materials orthodontist are curious to use this technology to improve orthodontic bracket positioning which would require minimal to no repositioning during the course of treatment. The authors here have tried to outline 2 different methods using CBCT and VTO as guide to decide the bracket positioning digitally and using 3D printed Indirect Bonding trays for orthodontic bonding.
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