Transverse maxillary discrepancies are the most common. The narrowed upper arch is the most prevalent problem an orthodontist encounter while treating adolescent and adult patients. Maxillary expansion is a technique used to increase the upper arch's transverse dimension to apply forces to widen the upper arch. For young children, a narrow maxillary arch has to be corrected using orthopedic and orthodontic treatments. In an orthodontic treatment plan, it is crucial to update transverse maxillary defeat. There are various clinical manifestations associated with a transverse maxillary deficiency which include a narrow palate, crossbite mainly seen in posteriors (unilateral or bilateral), severe crowding in anterior teeth, and cone-shaped hypertrophy can be seen. Some frequently used therapies for constricted upper arch include slow maxillary expansion, rapid maxillary expansion, and surgically assisted rapid maxillary expansion. Slow maxillary expansion requires light and constant force, whereas rapid maxillary expansion needs heavy pressure for activation. The surgical-assisted rapid maxillary expansion has gradually become popular to correct transverse maxillary hypoplasia. The maxillary expansion has various consequences on the nasomaxillary complex. There are multiple effects of maxillary expansion on the nasomaxillary complex. Mainly, the effect is seen on the mid-palatine suture along with the palate, maxilla, mandible, temporomandibular joint, soft tissue, and anterior and posterior upper teeth. It also affects functions like speech and hearing. Information on maxillary expansion is provided in depth in the following review article, along with its various effects on the surrounding structure.

No abstract

Background: In adolescent patient’s Rapid maxillary skeletal expansion (RME) is used with predictable clinical results for correcting transverse maxillary skeletal contraction. During RME, heavy force is directed towards the maxillary skeletal base. These forces also have effect on the palatal bone, adjacent skeletal structures and dentition. Tooth supported RME apply significant pressure on the teeth leading to varying amount of buccal inclination of premolars and molars and dental expansion. Implant assisted expanders take skeletal anchorage thus minimizing or negating the effect of heavy pressure on the teeth and supporting structures. Finite Element Analysis is a form of computer simulation. It is a non-invasive, precise method for obtaining quantitative and comprehensive knowledge about the physiological responses that occur in tissues. It outperforms other experimental methods because it creates a three-dimensional model that allows for simulation and analysis of orthodontic force systems in all three dimensions. Objective: The present study intends to make an assessment of four different RME designs (Banded HYRAX, Banded MARPE, MSE expander, Orthoeasy PAL expander) in terms of distribution of stress in the circummaxillary Sutural system and resulting displacement of the bones in the craniofacial complex upon activation of the respective appliance. Methodology: CBCT scan data of an adolescent patient will be taken from archives of a reputed scan centre. 3D skull model will be generated using CBCT data and .stl/ DICOM format will be converted into Finite Element model. The different types of RME appliances will be designed over the FE model. The expanders will be activated and the stresses generated at the sites of interest would be studied. Results: The study is expected to permit a clinician to select the design of RME appliances, which will produce suitable stress and displacement that will help to increase transverse width of maxilla to correct the underlying skeletal discrepancy. Conclusion: This study will help to arrive at a conclusion about which designs of RME will best suit clinical application of mechanics for orthopaedic expansion in a particular case.

Cleft lip/palate is a common congenital anomaly that occurs during birth. Incomplete fusion of the maxillary prominence and median nasal processes results in a small niche or indentation on the lip and palate that extends all the way up to the nose. The orofacial cleft can appear as isolated cleft lip, cleft lip with cleft palate, be associated with syndromes, or present unilaterally or bilaterally. Various management modalities are recommended depending on the extent and severity of the anomalies. Cleft lip and palate are frequently associated with developmental problems in the primary and permanent dentitions. To restore all of the aesthetic, functional, periodontal, and restorative components, it is critical to address the associated dental anomalies

Light amplification and stimulated emission of radiation techniques have been introduced in both medicine and science. Currently many lasers are available which are very efficient for dental soft and hard tissues. To achieve the desirable results, knowledge of laser technology such as power of particular type of lasers, its wavelength, and the time for which the particular laser is used. Lasers are mainly preferred because it prevents bleeding, is pain free and there is no need of intervention and saves valuable time of both patients and specialist, lasers are currently being used for alteration in conventional enamel etching and dentine bonding procedures during composite restorations, laser technology has made an advancement in orthodontics it has known to accelerate the movement of teeth to be moved, lasers are also used for removing the brackets and other bonding procedures, many researchers claim that this technology can also be used for implant procedures like it will increase the stability and strength of implant, reduction in demineralisation of enamel during various procedures. Lasers are mainly used in field of orthodontics which has resulted in better patient co-operation due to reduced pain and discomfort and is also convenient for the operator. Along with the advantages that lasers offer they are associated with few disadvantages. Lasers are relatively higher in prices than conventional equipments, for treating the patients with this modern technology the operator must be specially trained. If not used properly it can cause deleterious effects on tissues. This review article is about various dental lasers, effects of lasers on tissues and clinical and nonclinical applications and laser safety.