What is a Crossbite? Signs, Effects and Treatment

Crossbite is one of the most common dental problems that affect adults and children in the United States. Crossbite is a misalignment of teeth, where one or more teeth positioned improperly. Instead of being in their correct position, the teeth may be closer to the tongue or the cheek. If left untreated, crossbites can result in various dental complications, including affecting your dental aesthetics.

Types of Crossbite

There are two main types of crossbite:

• Anterior crossbite– Where the top front teeth sit behind the top lower front teeth. It can be confused with an under-bite, but the conditions are quite different.
• Posterior crossbite– In a posterior crossbite, the upper teeth sit in front of the lower front teeth.

Signs of Crossbite

If you experience any of the following symptoms, you may have a crossbite:

• Inability to speak properly
• Pain in the jaw
• Pain in at least one tooth
• Unbearable headaches
• The upper and lower teeth rows don’t touch each other
• Always biting on the inner cheek and tongue while eating or speaking

Effects of Crossbite

Crossbite can have several detrimental effects on your dental and oral health, including:

• Tooth decay
• Periodontal disease
• Jaw pain
• Asymmetrical smile and facial features
• Teeth grinding or bruxism
• Chronic headaches and migraines

It is essential to treat crossbite as soon as possible as these problems can seriously affect your general health and quality of life.

Crossbite Treatment Options

There are several treatment options for crossbite and its related effects. The most common options include:

• The use of a palatal or maxillary expander that steadily widens the upper palate
• A removable expander that you can wear at night and remove in the morning when going out
• A surgical procedure, where the jaw is split tactically, and then custom-made devices are used to help in widening the upper palate.
• The use of dental braces

When choosing the treatment that is ideal for your specific situation, it is essential to consult with a qualified and experienced orthodontic professionals. These professionals will carefully examine your teeth and help you choose the best treatment option for your crossbite.