Evaluation of the Soft Tissue Changes after Rapid Maxillary Expansion Using a Handheld Three-Dimensional Scanner: A Prospective Study

Facial soft tissue esthetics is a priority in orthodontic treatment, and emerging of the digital technologies can offer new methods to help the orthodontist toward an esthetic outcome. This prospective study aimed to assess the soft tissue changes of the face after six months of retention following Rapid Maxillary Expansion (RME). The sample consisted of 25 patients (13 females, 12 males, mean age: 11.6 years) who presented with unilateral or bilateral posterior crossbite requiring RME, which was performed with a Hyrax expander. 3D facial images were obtained before treatment (T0) and at the end of a six-month retention period after the treatment (T1) using a structured-light 3D handheld scanner. Linear and angular measurements were performed and 3D deviation analyses were done for six morphological regions of the face. Significant changes in various areas of the nasal and the upper lip regions were observed. Based on the results of the study and within the limitations of the study, RME with a Hyrax expander results in significant morphological changes of the face after a six-month retention period.