Expansion In Orthodontics

Two of the most common problems encountered by orthodontist are crowding and protrusion of teeth. A primary factor in dental crowding is often maxillary transverse or sagittal deficiency. Expansion is a means of gaining space with the added advantage of being a conservative procedure. Expansion can be done in an antero-posterior direction, lateral direction or a combination. The orthodontists in their therapeutic armamentarium has several effective expansion appliances, which may be removable, semi-fixed or fixed. The changes by these expansion appliances has been related to orthodontic and/or orthopaedic effect. Debate is being done on the stability and progress of expansion since the day the theory of expansion has been put forward. As with any form of therapy there are contraindications, occasional unfavourable responses and at times partial success. Nevertheless when properly used, expansion is of great value in treating malocclusion.