When treating a narrow upper jaw (maxillary constriction), orthodontic expansion can significantly improve bite, breathing and overall oral health. Three commonly discussed approaches are RME, MARPE and SARPE. While they all aim to widen the upper jaw, they differ in how they work, who they are suitable for, and where the treatment is carried out. 

If you're going through braces treatment, you've probably heard your orthodontist mention elastics, those tiny rubber bands that hook onto your brackets. They may look small, but they play a huge role in shaping your bite and overall smile. In this post, we'll walk through exactly what orthodontic elastics do, how to wear them, and tips to make your treatment as smooth and effective as possible.

Choosing the right type of braces is an important step in planning your orthodontic treatment. Each option offers unique advantages, along with factors worth thinking through before making a decision. At Aligned Orthodontics, we provide a range of solutions to suit different needs, lifestyles, and treatment goals. Below is a detailed overview to help you make an informed choice.