Palatal expansion in adults has become an increasingly important topic in airway focused and functional dentistry. As more research connects breathing, sleep quality, jaw development, and overall health, adults are seeking non surgical ways to address a narrow palate, compromised airway, or long standing orthodontic issues.
Two of the most commonly discussed options today are the DNA Appliance and MARPE. While both aim to expand the upper jaw, they do so in very different ways, using different force systems, timelines, and treatment philosophies.
This article explains the key differences between DNA and MARPE expansion so patients can better understand which approach may be appropriate based on anatomy, goals, and overall health considerations.
What Is Palatal Expansion in Adults?
Palatal expansion refers to widening the upper jaw to improve dental alignment, facial balance, and airway space. In children, this is often accomplished easily because the midpalatal suture has not yet fused. In adults, however, expansion becomes more complex due to increased bone density and sutural resistance.
Adult expansion strategies generally fall into two categories:
- Rapid, mechanically driven expansion
- Gradual, biologically guided remodeling
DNA and MARPE represent these two different philosophies.
What Is the DNA Appliance?
The DNA Appliance is a removable oral appliance designed to encourage gradual, low force expansion of the upper jaw over time. Rather than forcing the palate open, it applies intermittent forces that stimulate adaptive remodeling of the circummaxillary sutures.
Key characteristics of the DNA Appliance include:
- Low force, slow expansion protocols
- Emphasis on tongue posture and neuromuscular adaptation
- Gradual changes over months rather than weeks
- Designed to work with the body’s natural adaptive capacity
Because expansion occurs slowly, the surrounding muscles, joints, and airway structures have time to adapt. This makes DNA particularly appealing in practices that focus on airway health, function, and long term stability.
What Is MARPE?
MARPE stands for Miniscrew Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion. It is a fixed appliance anchored directly into bone using small temporary screws. This allows higher forces to be applied directly to the midpalatal suture.
Key characteristics of MARPE include:
- High force mechanical expansion
- Rapid separation of the midpalatal suture
- Skeletal expansion achieved in weeks
- Appliance is fixed and does not rely on compliance
MARPE is often used when more immediate skeletal expansion is required, especially in adults with significant transverse maxillary deficiency.
DNA vs MARPE | Key Differences Explained
Although both approaches aim to widen the palate, the way they achieve expansion differs significantly.
Force and Timing
DNA uses low, intermittent forces applied over an extended period. Expansion occurs gradually, allowing the craniofacial system to adapt over time.
MARPE uses high, continuous forces to mechanically separate the midpalatal suture. Expansion is rapid and often completed within weeks.
Sutural Response
With DNA, sutures are encouraged to remodel slowly without abrupt separation. This tends to produce more even changes and may reduce asymmetry.
MARPE creates an immediate mechanical split of the midpalatal suture. Because bone density and resistance vary between patients, uneven expansion can sometimes occur.
Skeletal vs Dental Expansion
Both approaches aim for skeletal change, but their effects differ.
- DNA Appliance
Primarily promotes skeletal remodeling with minimal dental tipping when protocols are followed carefully. - MARPE
Produces significant skeletal expansion, though minor dental tipping may occur depending on resistance patterns and miniscrew placement.
Airway, Tongue Posture, and Breathing
Airway considerations are a major reason many adults explore palatal expansion.
The DNA Appliance is designed to guide tongue posture upward into a gradually widening palate. Over time, this can support improved nasal breathing and upper airway function. Because neuromuscular adaptation is part of the treatment philosophy, airway changes tend to develop progressively.
MARPE may produce an immediate increase in nasal cavity width due to rapid skeletal expansion. However, functional adaptation such as tongue posture and breathing patterns are not directly addressed by the appliance itself and may require adjunctive therapy.
For patients concerned about snoring or sleep related breathing issues, expansion is often discussed alongside broader airway evaluation. You can learn more about how breathing and snoring are evaluated at The Dentist Lounge on our snoring and airway health page.
TMJ and Muscular Considerations
Force magnitude plays an important role in how the jaw joints and muscles respond to expansion.
DNA’s low force approach allows muscles and joints to adapt gradually, which may be beneficial for patients with a history of TMJ discomfort or muscular tension.
MARPE’s high force activation can place temporary stress on the TMJ and masticatory muscles. While many patients tolerate this well, careful screening and monitoring are essential.
Treatment Time and Patient Experience
- DNA Appliance
Treatment typically occurs over several months to longer timeframes. Compliance is critical, as the appliance is removable. - MARPE
Expansion occurs rapidly, often within weeks. Because the appliance is fixed, compliance is less of a concern, though regular monitoring is still required.
Patient preference, lifestyle, and tolerance for appliances often influence which option feels more appropriate.
Evidence and Research Considerations
Research on adult palatal expansion continues to evolve.
MARPE has stronger short term skeletal evidence, supported by CBCT studies and biomechanical analysis. Long term data on airway outcomes and craniofacial adaptation in adults is still limited.
DNA relies more heavily on case series, retrospective observations, and functional outcomes such as tongue posture and breathing patterns. Because changes occur slowly, long term measurement is more challenging.
Both approaches require careful case selection and realistic expectations.
Which Option Is Right for You?
There is no universal answer. The best approach depends on:
- Age and bone density
- Degree of transverse deficiency
- Airway and breathing goals
- TMJ and muscular health
- Willingness to commit to gradual treatment versus rapid change
At The Dentist Lounge, expansion decisions are made as part of a comprehensive evaluation that considers airway health, function, and long term stability rather than focusing solely on tooth movement.
If you are exploring adult palatal expansion, a personalized consultation allows your provider to determine whether DNA, MARPE, or another approach is most appropriate for your anatomy and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does MARPE split the palate in adults?
Yes, MARPE is designed to mechanically separate the midpalatal suture using bone anchored force.
Does the DNA Appliance actually expand bone?
DNA aims to encourage gradual skeletal remodeling through low force stimulation of circummaxillary sutures.
Is palatal expansion painful?
Discomfort varies by method. MARPE may cause temporary pressure during activation, while DNA tends to produce milder sensations over time.
Can palatal expansion improve airway and breathing?
Expansion can increase space for the tongue and nasal airway, though functional outcomes vary and often require a comprehensive airway approach.
How long do results last?
Stability depends on retention, neuromuscular adaptation, and addressing underlying airway and functional factors.