Crossbite: What Is It and How to Treat This Dental Condition?

Dental patients who have bite irregularities need the assistance of an orthodontist. The specialists understand what is necessary to correct the alignment and prevent tooth damage. Some alignment issues can become quite severe and lead to further underlying risks if they aren't corrected quickly. Reviewing what a crossbite is and how to treat it shows dental patients what to expect from treatment.

What is Crossbite?

A crossbite is a condition in which the teeth do not align properly. Either the two front bottom teeth protrude outward and in front of the top teeth, or one of these teeth is protruding outward out of alignment. The top teeth should either rest on top of the bottom teeth or over them. It can affect both rows of teeth causing a variety of issues and will require correction. Patients who believe they have a crossbite and want to schedule an assessment contact Dr. Normand Bach to set up an appointment right now.

What Causes a Crossbite?

Common causes of a crossbite are the positioning of the jaw or the positioning of the teeth. If the crossbite occurs in a child's mouth and the affected teeth are baby teeth, it is less likely that the crossbite will affect their adult teeth. However, the exact cause of the crossbite is addressed to correct the alignment and prevent further issues for the patient. Abnormalities of the jaw can cause a crossbite and lead to severe tooth and jaw damage. Discovering the crossbite earlier can help the patient get the corrective services they need before any further issues develop.

What are Risk Factors Associated With a Crossbite?

There are some risk factors associated with a crossbite. The abnormal jaw growth in children is a major risk and can lead to narrowing of the palate or even the upper jaw bone. When this happens the patient could face difficulties in breathing and won't be able to bite or chew their food properly. If the crossbite affects the front teeth, tooth damage is more likely to occur. Chips and breaks occur most often and lead to more dental procedures to correct them. Jaw pain and discomfort, sleep apnea, and TMJ are also risks that can result from a crossbite.

How are Crossbites Treated by Orthodontists?

Treating a crossbite involves broadening the jaw to give the teeth more space to fall into proper alignment. Dental professionals often used dental appliances to force the teeth into proper alignment and prevent the teeth from becoming damaged. Braces are often used for correcting a crossbite by applying adequate pressure against the teeth. In the most severe cases, the orthodontist will recommend oral surgery to correct the position of the jaw and correct any abnormalities of the palate.

Orthodontists recommend Invisalign braces for patients with a crossbite as the alignment issue affects only the front teeth. The process pushes the teeth back into alignment and corrects the bite. The process can take up to two years to complete, and the patient receives a new set of braces every six weeks.

Dental patients with a crossbite need to visit an orthodontist for proper treatment. The condition affects the front teeth most often and is often caused by the positioning of the jaw. It can cause speech difficulties and make it difficult for patients to breathe properly if it isn't treated quickly. Reviewing what the condition is and how to treat it shows dental patients what to expect.