Asymmetric Rapid Maxillary Expansion in a Cleft Lip and Palate Patient With True Unilateral Posterior Crossbite: A Case Report

Abstract

An 18-year-old female with incomplete unilateral cleft lip and palate presented with skeletal class I malocclusion, severe crowding, anterior crossbite, unilateral posterior crossbite, congenitally missing maxillary left lateral incisor, and root dilacerations. The aims of the treatment were to achieve good occlusion and improve psychological well-being. Orthodontic treatment with a preadjusted edgewise MBT 0.022 bracket system and asymmetric Hyrax-type expander achieved proper dental alignment and unilateral transverse expansion without affecting the non-crossbite side. The Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale increased from 13 to 27, indicating enhanced psychological well-being. The asymmetric Hyrax-type expander was effective for correcting unilateral posterior crossbite.