If you’ve ever been told you have a crossbite, you may be wondering what that means for your smile and oral health. Crossbites are a relatively common orthodontic condition, and they’re something we take seriously at MacKenzie Orthodontics. Understanding what a crossbite is, the potential problems it can cause, and how it’s treated will help you feel more confident about managing your orthodontic care.
What Exactly is a Crossbite?
A crossbite occurs when one or more of your upper teeth sit behind your lower teeth when your mouth is closed. This can happen either on the front (anterior crossbite) or on the sides of the mouth (posterior crossbite). Simply put, in a healthy bite, the upper teeth should sit slightly outside of the lower teeth. When this alignment is off, the condition is referred to as a crossbite.
Why is a Crossbite a Problem?
While crossbites might seem like a minor cosmetic issue, they can have long-term implications if left untreated. Here are a few of the main problems associated with crossbites:
- Uneven Wear and Tear: The misalignment caused by a crossbite leads to abnormal tooth contact during biting and chewing, resulting in excessive wear on certain teeth. Over time, this can damage tooth enamel and cause other dental issues like sensitivity or fractures.
- Jaw Discomfort: A crossbite can place unnecessary stress on your jaw joints, particularly the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This can cause pain, discomfort, and even issues like headaches, neck pain, or jaw clicking.
- Difficulty Eating and Speaking: Because your teeth aren’t aligned properly, biting into food or speaking clearly can become challenging. This is especially problematic for younger patients who are still developing their speech and eating habits.
- Facial Asymmetry: Over time, a crossbite can contribute to an uneven or asymmetrical appearance of the face. This is particularly common with anterior crossbites, where the front teeth are misaligned.
How Do You Fix a Crossbite?
The good news is that a crossbite is highly treatable with orthodontics. At MacKenzie Orthodontics, we utilize several approaches to help correct a crossbite, depending on the severity and age of the patient:
- Braces: Traditional braces are effective for both anterior and posterior crossbites. The metal brackets and wires are adjusted periodically to shift your teeth into proper alignment. This approach may take a bit longer, especially for adults, but it’s highly effective.
- Clear Aligners (Invisalign): For mild cases of crossbite, clear aligners like Invisalign may be an excellent solution. These removable aligners gradually shift your teeth into their ideal position without the need for wires or brackets, providing a more discreet treatment option.
- Palatal Expanders: If your crossbite is caused by a narrow upper jaw, a palatal expander might be used. This appliance gradually widens the upper jaw to create more space for the teeth to align properly.
- Functional Appliances: In some cases, Dr. MacKenzie may recommend other appliances designed to correct bite issues and align the jaw. These are often used in combination with braces or aligners.
When to Seek Treatment?
Early detection is key when it comes to treating a crossbite. Children with this condition may benefit from early orthodontic intervention to guide their growth and prevent more serious dental issues down the road. However, adults can also seek treatment, and we’ll work with you to design a personalized plan to correct your crossbite and improve your overall dental health.
If you suspect that you or your child may have a crossbite, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with MacKenzie Orthodontics. Early treatment can make all the difference in achieving a healthy, beautiful smile.