SURGICAL
EXPANSION CALCULATOR
about this calculator
PURPOSE
The Surgical Expansion Calculator is designed to assist clinicians with treatment planning cases presenting with transverse deficiencies. It is a simple assessment which includes an algorithm that evaluates four elements: the absolute transverse measurement; the curve of Wilson; tooth-arch requirements (crowding); and the inclination of the buccal segments. By using this calculator, the surgical-orthodontic team can be aided in the decision whether a case can be treated by segmentation of the maxilla during OGS or that a SARPE is needed prior to orthodontic level and alignment.
HOW TO USE
Clinicians simply analyze 4 elements and select the corresponding option in the calculator.
Absolute transverse measurement*
Inclination of maxillary buccal segments
Curve of Wilson
Tooth-arch requirements (crowding).
The Surgical Expansion Calculator assigns a score of 1, 2, or 3 for each possible option under the various diagnostic factors. A total score will be automatically calculated and a treatment recommendation generated below.
Scores less than 5 can be managed orthodontically
Scores of 5-8 can be managed with a segmental Le Fort
Scores over 8 can be managed with SARPE
*Measure the central fossa of the upper maxillary 1st molar compared to the distal buccal cusp of the lower mandibular 1st molar (or measure the relationship in the predicted (final) class I molar occlusion).
REFERENCES
This calculator was created in collaboration with Dr. Marco Caminiti, an expert in orthognathic (corrective jaw) surgeries, as well as oral surgery education.
Please view our Oral Health Journal publication introducing the Surgical Expansion Calculator. This article explains the rationale for the calculator and the evidence supporting it.
EXAMPLE
Please refer to our article which includes a detailed case study.
If you’d like to learn more about the Surgical Expansion Calcualtor, please check out our article in the oral health journal, which reviews:
Importance of the transverse dimension
Management options
Determining the magnitude of the transverse discrepancy
The Surgical Expansion Calculator
Case Study
DISCLAIMER
The information provided is intended solely for informational and educational purposes for licensed dental professionals. The orthodontic calculators, while based on evidence from reputable orthodontic literature as well as clinical experience, are tools designed to assist clinical decision-making. They are not intended to make final treatment decisions. Do not take the outputs from these calculators at face value; they are meant to complement, not replace, professional judgment and critical thinking.
These calculators are generalized and not customized for any specific patient case. It remains the responsibility of the treating orthodontist or dentist to thoroughly assess and tailor care to each patient’s individual needs. By using this tool, you acknowledge that the ultimate responsibility for patient care lies with the treating clinician. Ortho Calculator Inc. will not be held liable for any risks, complications, or outcomes associated with acting on the information provided by this website.
The ortho calculators are not intended for use by the general public. If you are not a licensed dental professional, please refrain from using or relying on the calculators or content provided here. By using the Ortho Calculators, you acknowledge and agree to the terms outlined in this disclaimer.