Much like maxillary expansion, there are two general ways to widen the lower arch. Distraction Osteogenesis vs segmental surgery. This is a more rare procedure than maxillary expansion because of the indications. Currently the most common indication is to help with severe mandibular crowding and a narrow mandibular arch. Increasingly, this procedure is being used to facilitate maxillary expansion for breathing purposes. This is a surgery known as DAME.
Midline distraction of the mandible
Midline distraction, much like maxillary distraction, depends on patients growing their own bone. An incision is made under your lip to access the chin. A cut in the chin is made that extends up to the teeth which allows for the expander device to widen the lower jaw. This process when used to breathe better is called DAME – distraction assisted mandibular expansion.
Segmental mandibular surgery
Segmental mandibular surgery does not help to resolve crowding but is used to widen the lower arch, facilitate maxillary expansion, and help with esthetic goals of jaw surgery.