# Effect of rapid palatal expansion on condylar displacement and TMJ space: A CBCT evaluation among pediatric population

## TL;DR

This study uses CBCT to show that rapid palatal expansion in children causes significant changes in jaw joint position and space.

## Contribution

The study provides new CBCT-based evidence on condylar displacement and TMJ space changes due to RPE in pediatric patients.

## Key findings

- RPE causes significant anterior and inferior condylar displacement in growing individuals.
- TMJ joint spaces increase after RPE treatment in pediatric patients.

## Abstract

The effect of Rapid palatal expansion (RPE) on condylar displacement and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) space using Cone-Beam Computed
Tomography (CBCT) in a pediatric population is of interest. RPE with a Hyrax expander was done on 80 patients. Pre- and post-treatment
CBCT scans were evaluated to measure condylar displacement (anterior-posterior and vertical) and TMJ joint spaces (anterior, posterior,
superior and medial). RPE induces significant anterior and inferior condylar displacement and increases in TMJ joint spaces in growing
individuals.