A crossbite is a common dental condition that occurs when the upper teeth fit inside the lower teeth, rather than aligning correctly. It can affect both children and adults, leading to potential issues such as jaw pain, uneven tooth wear, and even difficulty chewing. Understanding the causes and treatment options is key to finding the right solution for crossbite correction.
If left untreated, a crossbite might contribute to long-term oral health challenges. Thankfully, various treatment methods are available, ranging from braces to more advanced dental interventions. This guide will explore the main causes behind crossbites while helping you discover effective options for crossbite correction to restore a healthy, confident smile.
What Is a Crossbite?
A crossbite occurs when your upper teeth fall inside your lower teeth when you bite down. This misalignment can affect a single tooth or a group of teeth and can occur in the front (anterior crossbite) or the back (posterior crossbite) of your mouth.
Left untreated, crossbites can cause:
- Uneven wear on teeth, leading to chipping or tooth fractures.
- Jaw pain or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues.
- Gum recession or difficulty in maintaining oral hygiene.
Crossbites are treatable with modern orthodontic techniques—and the sooner you address it, the better.
Causes of Crossbite
Several factors may contribute to developing a crossbite, including:
- Genetics: If a parent has a crossbite, the chances of their child having one are higher.
- Delayed or Uneven Tooth Eruption: Baby teeth that don’t fall out properly can disrupt the alignment of growing adult teeth.
- Jaw Development Issues: A mismatch in the size of the upper and lower jaw can lead to a crossbite.
- Habits: Extended thumb-sucking, prolonged pacifier use, or mouth breathing during childhood may contribute.
Understanding the cause helps orthodontists recommend the most effective treatment plan.
Signs and Symptoms of a Crossbite
Detecting a crossbite early is essential for preventing potential complications that may arise over time. While the condition is often noticeable during childhood, it can also develop or worsen in adults due to various factors.
A crossbite can manifest in ways that may impact both your dental and overall oral health, making it important to recognize and address the issue as soon as possible.
Look for these common indicators:
- Difficulty biting or chewing food evenly
- Misaligned teeth visible when the mouth is closed
- Jaw pain or clicking
- Uneven wear on teeth or tooth surfaces
If you suspect a crossbite, it’s essential to consult with your orthodontist for a thorough evaluation.
Why Early Treatment is Important
Many orthodontists recommend addressing crossbites as early as possible, preferably during childhood. Early treatment may involve interceptive orthodontics and other methods to guide permanent teeth into their correct positions.
Addressing a crossbite early can save you or your child from more invasive procedures down the line. Benefits of timely treatment include:
- Prevention of Long-Term Damage: Early correction minimizes the risk of tooth wear, TMJ problems, or gum issues.
- Improved Facial Symmetry: Treatment during childhood can guide proper jaw growth, improving overall aesthetics.
- Shorter Treatment Times: Early intervention often reduces the duration and complexity of orthodontic care.
Additionally, correcting a crossbite typically becomes more challenging and time-consuming with age.
How to Fix a Crossbite
Thankfully, today’s orthodontics offers a variety of solutions for crossbite correction. These include traditional braces, clear aligners, and newer methods such as the Damon System. The right treatment for you will depend on several factors including age, severity of the crossbite, and personal preferences.
1. Traditional Braces
Braces remain one of the most common and effective treatments for crossbite. By applying pressure to teeth over time, they gradually align them into the proper position. Crossbite braces are made up of brackets, wires, and elastic bands that work together to move teeth into their correct positions.
The main advantage of traditional braces is that they can correct even severe crossbites effectively.
2. Damon Self-Ligating Braces
At Damon Orthodontics, we use tie-less Damon braces, which reduce friction and move teeth faster with fewer appointments. They are also more comfortable and take less time than traditional braces.
Patients seeking discreet options can also consider Damon Braces—the aesthetic alternative to metal brackets.
3. Clear Aligners (Invisalign or Spark Clear Aligners)
Clear aligners, like Invisalign and Spark, are nearly invisible and removable trays that gently straighten teeth. They are a fantastic choice for adults or teens wanting more subtle treatment.
At Damon Orthodontics: We use advanced scanning technology like the iTero Scanner to create completely personalized clear aligners tailored to your needs.
4. Jaw Surgery
For severe cases in adults where growth is complete, corrective jaw surgery might be necessary to achieve alignment.
Each treatment plan is unique, and an orthodontist will guide you through selecting the best option for your specific case.
What Happens During Crossbite Treatment?
Orthodontic treatment for crossbites is generally straightforward. It involves the following steps:
- Assessment: During your initial visit, your orthodontist will examine your teeth and take X-rays to determine the type of crossbite. They may also create a plaster cast or digital scan of your teeth to plan the appropriate course of action.
- Customized Treatment Plan: Once they have assessed your specific needs, an orthodontist will create a customized treatment plan designed to move your teeth into their proper positions over time.
- Placement of Braces/Aligners: Depending on which treatment you choose, you’ll then receive braces or aligners that apply gentle pressure on your teeth to correct the crossbite.
- Adjustments: You’ll need to visit the orthodontist periodically for adjustments and assessments of progress.
- Maintenance: Once treatment is complete, you’ll typically need to wear a retainer or night guard to maintain your results.
Why Choose Damon Orthodontics?
If you’re considering crossbite correction, Damon Orthodontics provides comprehensive care with a personal touch. We offer a variety of treatment options to fit your specific needs and budget, backed by cutting-edge technology such as the Damon System.
Additionally, our team of experienced orthodontists is dedicated to providing the most comfortable and efficient treatments for all our patients.
Convenient Locations
With three locations; our orthodontic office in Spokane Valley, North Spokane, and South Hill. Providing you with quality orthodontic care that is always close to home.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start your journey towards a healthy, beautiful smile.
Take the First Step Towards Crossbite Correction
A crossbite doesn’t just affect your teeth—it can impact your overall oral health and confidence. Crossbite correction can prevent bigger problems in the future and give you the beautiful, comfortable smile you deserve.
Now that you know how to fix a crossbite, it’s time to schedule a consultation today. Visit one of our locations or to the nearest orthodontist.