Altera？？es na dimens？o transversal pela expans？o rápida da maxila

transverse deformities, typically manifested by unilateral or bilateral crossbite, are the skeletal problems that can cause more sequels in the craniofacial region. however, such deformities are the most adaptable to orthopedic changes. rapid maxillary expansion has become a routine in the orthodontic practice. even though initially such procedure has been used for correction of posterior crossbite, today it has been applied for indirect expansion of the lower arch, obtaining space for correction of dental crowding, correction of axial inclination of posterior teeth, improvement in the smile aesthetics characteristics and on treatment of class ii patients. orthopedic maxillary expansion has gained increasing attention of the scientific community due to its application and ability to change the craniofacial growth in many clinical situations. this type of orthopedic intervention has a positive therapeutic result in several abnormalities and is more versatile when compared to the growth modification devices currently available for orthodontic treatment.