What treatment approach might be used for a posterior crossbite caused by skeletal width deficiencies?

The appropriate treatment approach for a posterior crossbite caused by skeletal width deficiencies often involves utilizing a strategy that addresses the underlying problem of the skeletal structure. In this case, rapid maxillary expansion (RME) with high increments is considered effective. This method involves using an appliance designed to widen the upper jaw, which helps in correcting the skeletal deficiency contributing to the crossbite.

When employing RME with high increments, the force applied is significant enough to promote the separation of the midpalatal suture, facilitating an increase in the maxillary width. This is particularly beneficial in growing patients as their skeletal structures are more adaptable, and it allows for a more stable and functional correction of the crossbite.

Other treatment modalities might not target the skeletal discrepancy as effectively. Surgical intervention may be considered in some complex cases but generally is more invasive and reserved for adults or cases where RME is not feasible. Extraction of molars is usually not in line with correcting skeletal width issues directly and may lead to further complications in arch length and function. Fixed appliances alone address dental alignment but do not typically correct skeletal discrepancies, which is the root cause of the crossbite in this scenario.

Thus, RME with high increments emerges as the most effective treatment approach to rectify