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Standard RPE (Rapid Palatal Expander)

The RPE (Rapid Palatal Expander) is a fixed metal expander soldered to bands on the first molars with an .036 lingual wire connecting the bands.

It provides rapid expansion of the mid-palatal suture through daily activation of the expansion screw. 1/4 turn of the screw results in 1/4mm of expansion.

Typically .5mm of lateral expansion per day is achieved by instructing the patient to activate the screw 1/4 turn in the morning and 1/4 turn at night. Screws come in 8, 11, and 13mm sizes.