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Rapid maxillary expansion indication — NDEB AFK MCQ

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HardOrthodonticsRapid maxillary expansion indicationNDEB AFK

An 11-year-old has bilateral posterior crossbite, narrow maxilla, nasal airway complaints, and no significant dental crowding. The midpalatal suture is expected to be responsive to orthopaedic force. What is the most appropriate treatment?

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Correct answer: B — Rapid maxillary expansion

A constricted maxilla with bilateral posterior crossbite in a growing patient is a classic indication for maxillary expansion. Mandibular surgery is not appropriate for a transverse maxillary deficiency in this age group. The pearl is that timing matters because skeletal expansion becomes less predictable as sutural maturation increases.

Reference: NDEB orthodontic reference texts; NDEB KSAs 2024