Do you know what a crossbite is? If not, do not worry. You are not alone. A lot of patients are not familiar with this dental issue. Crossbite is a condition that affects the way your teeth fit together. It can cause several dental problems and should be treated as soon as possible.
What is a Crossbite?
Many people have never heard of this dental condition before, but it is more common than you might think. A crossbite is a dental condition in which the upper teeth bite down on the inside of the lower teeth. This can happen with the front teeth or with the back teeth (molars). Crossbites can cause problems with chewing and can lead to tooth wear and gum disease. Treatment for a crossbite often involves wearing braces or other appliances to move the teeth into their proper positions.
Issues Associated with a Crossbite
A crossbite is a dental issue that can cause many dental problems for the patient. In some cases, it can even lead to serious health issues. It is crucial to have a crossbite treated as soon as possible to avoid the following problems.
Pain
Dental patients often experience pain in different parts of their mouths when they have a crossbite. It can also lead to headaches, toothaches, and jaw pain. Many patients experience pain while eating or chewing and difficulty sleeping due to the pain.
Speech Impediments
Crossbite can cause speech impediments because of the misalignment of your teeth. This can make it challenging for patients to pronounce certain words correctly. It can also lead to pain and discomfort when speaking, making it difficult to talk at all.
TMJ Disorder
Several things can cause this disorder, but crossbite is one of the most common. Crossbite occurs when your upper teeth bite down on the inside of your lower teeth, which can strain the muscles and ligaments around the joint.
Tooth Decay
Most people think that a lack of oral hygiene only causes tooth decay, but it can also be caused by other factors such as crossbite. Crossbite puts stress on certain teeth, leading to tooth decay. Left untreated, it can lead to cavities developing and tooth loss.
Types of Crossbites
Crossbites are a prevalent dental problem that many patients will face. There are many different types of crossbites, and each type can cause various issues. It is essential to know which type you have to seek treatment.
Posterior Crossbite
Of all the various dental problems that can occur, posterior crossbite is one of the most difficult to correct. This happens when the back teeth on one side of your mouth do not fit properly against the corresponding teeth on the other side. If left untreated, this condition can lead to many problems, including difficulty biting and chewing, misaligned teeth, and even gum disease.
Dentists can often treat a posterior crossbite with a combination of orthodontic treatment and oral surgery.
Anterior Crossbite
An anterior crossbite is a dental condition where the upper front teeth bite over the bottom teeth. This can happen when the upper jaw is not aligned correctly with the lower jaw or crowding the teeth. Anterior crossbites can cause problems with eating and speaking and lead to tooth wear and gum disease.
Anterior crossbite is usually treated by orthodontic treatment or jaw surgery to ensure proper alignment. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent further damage to the teeth and gums.
Common Causes of a Crossbite
A crossbite is a dental condition that occurs when one or more of your permanent teeth are not in their normal position. This can happen for various reasons but is most often caused by a problem with the way your jaw grows and develops.
These are the most common causes of crossbite:
- Prolonged thumb sucking
- Prolonged use of a pacifier or bottle
- Tongue thrusting
- Premature loss of baby teeth
How to Fix a Crossbite
There are many crossbite treatment options available, depending on the severity of the malocclusion. In some cases, simple traction devices can gradually move the teeth into their proper position. However, more severe cases may require surgery.
If you think you may have a crossbite, these are the most common treatment options available today:
Traditional Metal Braces
Traditional metal or ceramic braces are among the most common treatments for correcting a crossbite. With the assistance of your dentist, they will be able to slowly move your teeth into their correct position and allow your teeth to align perfectly. They are an effective and comfortable way for dental patients to align their smiles properly.
Invisalign Clear Aligners
Invisalign clear aligners can be used to correct a crossbite. Invisalign is an excellent option for correcting crossbite because the aligners are virtually invisible and comfortable to wear. They work the same way braces do, but they are more comfortable and discreet, making them a popular option for dental patients.
Dental Expanders
Dental expanders are great for correcting a developing posterior crossbite. They work by expanding the upper arch to make room for adult teeth. It is best used when the soft palate, teeth, and bones are still developing. For this reason, it is best used in children before malocclusion has already developed.
Oral Surgery
Oral surgery is usually the last resort when the crossbite is too severe to be treated with another less invasive option. Patients will still require orthodontic treatment to follow up surgery in most cases.
Dental Retainers
After completing any orthodontic treatment, a custom dental retainer will be created and prescribed to keep your teeth in alignment. They are typically worn at night and help ensure your teeth do not shift out of place and stay in their correct position.
Contact Us to Treat Your Crossbite
If you or your child is experiencing a crossbite, please do not hesitate to contact our dental office for treatment. We would be happy to help correct the misalignment and alleviate your pain and suffering.
Give our office a call today at 336-286-0200 to schedule a consultation with one of our skilled dentists.