The effects of rapid maxillary expansion on voice function

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the effects of rapid maxillary expansion (RME) on vocal function in patients with bilateral maxillary crossbite. Materials and Methods: We designed our research as a prospective, controlled, clinical study. The treatment group and the control group each had 20 subjects for a total of 40 subjects. Acoustic voice samples were recorded from all patients at T1 and T2 by the Multi-Dimensional Voice Program (MDVP Model 5105) for acoustic analysis in Computerized Speech Lab (CSL). Results: No statistically significant differences were found between the treatment and control groups in the means of any parameters. Conclusions: RME does not change vocal quality or resonance, so it can be safely used with patients.