Facegenics Midfacial Expander (FME) in Boca Raton, FL
- Virtual consultations
- Out-of-state patients welcome
- Medical insurance accepted
What is the Facegenics Midfacial Expander (FME)?
The Facegenics Midfacial Expander (FME) is part of the Miniscrew-Assisted Rapid Palatal Expander (MARPE) family, designed to improve the fit and size of midfacial expansion devices. Unlike traditional expanders, FME is a pure bone-borne appliance, which reduces stress on surrounding teeth while still achieving effective skeletal expansion.
Compact in size and customizable with six to ten miniscrews, the FME offers a smaller, more comfortable design without sacrificing effectiveness. It is often recommended for adult patients who need midfacial expansion but have complex dental histories.
Breathe Life into Your Smile
A Smarter Expansion Design
Because it is bone-borne, the FME minimizes tooth load while delivering precise skeletal expansion. Its reduced size makes it less bulky and easier for patients to adapt to than traditional devices.
Combined with Advanced Protocols
For adult patients, Dr. Koval often combines the FME with 3D-guided midpalatal piezocorticotomy. This gentle surgical technique helps ensure symmetrical expansion and preserves the position of the nasal septum. The approach is part of the MARPEFACE™ protocol, which integrates advanced technology with both tooth-bone-borne and bone-borne appliances for optimal results.
What is Myofunctional Therapy?
We understand the importance of your child's development and well-being. That's why we're proud to offer Myofunctional Therapy as part of our services. Myofunctional therapy focuses on the orofacial muscles, helping your child improve essential functions such as breathing through the nose, swallowing, articulation, and speech. We're here to support your child's growth and development every step of the way, ensuring they have the best possible foundation for a healthy future.
We offer in-office and remote treatment with our Myofunctional therapist.
Benefits of FME
Gentle, Precise Expansion
Bone-borne design minimizes pressure on teeth, creating a safer and more effective treatment for adult patients.
Customized for Your Needs
Available in multiple sizes and miniscrew configurations, the FME can be adapted to your unique anatomy and dental history.
Part of a Comprehensive Protocol
When combined with MARPEFACE™ techniques, FME supports balanced midfacial development, long-term stability, and improved airway health.
Gentle, Precise Expansion
Bone-borne design minimizes pressure on teeth, creating a safer and more effective treatment for adult patients.
Customized for Your Needs
Available in multiple sizes and miniscrew configurations, the FME can be adapted to your unique anatomy and dental history.
Part of a Comprehensive Protocol
When combined with MARPEFACE™ techniques, FME supports balanced midfacial development, long-term stability, and improved airway health.
The FME Process
Here’s what you can expect during treatment with the Facegenics Midfacial Expander at our Boca Raton office.
Step 1 – Initial Consultation & Records
We begin by collecting CBCT scans, intraoral scans, photos, and a thorough medical and dental history. This helps us determine the best appliance for your case.
Step 2 – Treatment Planning & Discussion
Dr. Koval carefully reviews your records and recommends the most suitable appliance. For adult patients, this may include FME in combination with the MARPEFACE™ protocol using tooth-bone-borne or bone-borne expanders. A personalized plan is then created to ensure predictable, symmetrical expansion.
Step 3 – Appliance Placement & Activation
Your FME is placed and activated according to your plan. Follow-up orthodontic visits include appliance activation, monitoring, and adjustments to guide progress.
Step 4 – Ongoing Orthodontic Care
Regular visits ensure the appliance is functioning properly and expansion remains stable. Treatment typically takes 20–24 months, depending on case complexity.
FAQs
How long does FME treatment take?
Most patients complete treatment within 20–24 months, though the exact duration depends on your case and initial conditions. Regular follow-ups help ensure steady progress.
Who is a candidate for FME?
Adults who may benefit from the FME include those with:
- Multiple restorations (such as crowns, veneers, or onlays)
- No palatal tori
- No significant pre-existing facial asymmetries
Dr. Koval will confirm your candidacy during your initial consultation in Boca Raton.
Is the appliance uncomfortable?
The FME is smaller than many traditional expanders, making it less bulky and easier to adjust to. Any temporary soreness usually improves within a few days.
Why can’t I follow outside advice?
Every case is unique, and treatment must follow the MARPEFACE™ protocol for safe, predictable results. Seeking outside advice may compromise your outcome, so it’s crucial to follow only the guidance given by Dr. Koval and our team.
