Do you feel your teeth are messed up? You could be having a crossbite. Crossbite, also known as an underbite, is a type of malocclusion, or bad bite, that causes rows of teeth to overlap improperly. Crossbite is common in both children and adults. You may have trouble chewing food, or your dentist may have mentioned it during a check-up. No matter your age, there are several options for correcting a crossbite. 

What exactly is a crossbite? 

When you bite, your lower teeth cover one or more of your upper teeth, which is known as a crossbite. In short, it is the irregular contact between the upper and lower teeth. This intermittent contact can occur in a variety of locations throughout the mouth. 

Crossbites are classified into two types, 

Anterior Crossbites: They occur when the lower front teeth (canine and incisors) protrude further than the upper front teeth. Crossbites can be treated with orthodontics, but for severe cases in adults, some crossbites require a combination of orthodontics and surgery to set back the lower jaw and achieve optimal results. 

Posterior crossbites: They are a type of improper back tooth bite in which the lower back teeth (the premolars and molars) protrude further than the upper back teeth. An expander, a common orthodontic appliance, can be used to correct posterior crossbites. 

Causes 

Crossbites can be inherited, but they can also be acquired. Crossbites in children can result from permanent teeth emerging before all baby teeth have fallen out. If this happens, the new teeth cannot grow properly, resulting in misalignment issues. 

It can be caused by various other factors like thumb-sucking, tongue-thrusting, and prolonged pacifier or bottle use. 

Symptoms and Risks 

A crossbite can cause headaches, jaw pain, and tooth decay. Crossbites can also impact the appearance of your teeth and lips. A crossbite in the back teeth can cause teeth grinding, abnormal facial development, and jaw problems. If left untreated, it could cause speech impediments, temporomandibular disorder (TMD), gum diseases, or tooth loss. 

Treatments 

Most crossbites can be corrected by adjusting the teeth or jaw with orthodontic treatments and appliances. Most dentists agree that the best time to fix a crossbite is when you are young. Adults can also be treated, but the earlier the crossbite is detected and treated, the better.  

Each case is unique and necessitates an examination to determine the best treatment. There are several options for treatment for correcting a crossbite: 

    • Removable Palatal Expander 
    • Braces 
    • Retainers 
    • Dental Restorations (bonding, capping) 
    • Teeth extraction 
    • Headgear 
    • In severe cases, surgery 

Many orthodontic professionals use a combination of expanders and braces therapy. The expanders work to create the proper amount of space between the teeth so the bites are correctly aligned throughout the mouth. A removable expander that is only worn at night may be prescribed in adults. However, everyone’s condition is different and will require a treatment strategy.  

As said before, untreated crossbites can lead to more severe health problems in the future. Make an appointment with Bravo! Dental today to correct your bite! The best place to begin is to speak with your dentist about crossbite correction and treatment options for you or your child. 

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