Evaluation of the Effect of MARPE on Speech

Overview

This study investigates the effects of Miniscrew-Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion (MARPE) on speech characteristics in adolescent and young adult patients. While MARPE is a widely used orthodontic procedure for treating maxillary transverse deficiency, its potential impact on speech production has not been thoroughly evaluated. The aim of this study is to assess whether MARPE treatment causes any temporary or long-term changes in speech patterns using acoustic and perceptual analysis methods.

This prospective clinical study aims to evaluate how Miniscrew-Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion (MARPE) affects speech in adolescents and young adults with skeletal maxillary transverse deficiency. Speech production relies on precise palatal anatomy and oral resonance. Since MARPE modifies the palatal structure through skeletal expansion, it may influence articulation and acoustic properties of speech. Despite its increasing use in orthodontics, the potential speech-related side effects of MARPE remain largely unexplored. Participants aged 13-25 will undergo MARPE treatment as part of their standard orthodontic care. Speech recordings will be taken at three time points: before expansion (baseline), immediately after the active expansion phase, and after the retention period. Acoustic analysis and standardized perceptual speech evaluations will be conducted to detect any phonetic, articulatory, or resonance-related changes. The results will help clinicians better understand the functional implications of MARPE on speech and provide guidance for counseling patients before treatment.

Conditions

Interventions

Eligibility

Locations (1)

Outcomes