What is a crossbite?
A crossbite is the name given to an orthodontic concern characterised by a tooth, or teeth, that is positioned closer to the inside or outside of the dental arch than its opposing tooth or teeth, causing it to sit out of alignment and creating a “malocclusion”. The underbite [link to underbite page] is an example of a crossbite, where the upper anterior (“front”) teeth sit behind the lower anterior teeth.
What causes it?
A crossbite is often hereditary, but may also be the result of:
- The development or under-development of the jaw and dentition (“teeth”)
- Mouth-breathing
- Habits such as thumb-sucking
- Misuse of dummies or baby bottles while the mouth and teeth were developing
What impact does it have?
While a crossbite may have a cosmetic impact on the sufferer, it may also affect your ability to bite, chew, and talk. It may also put undue pressure on one or more of your jaw joints and cause premature tooth wear, and even dental trauma.
How is it treated?
A crossbite can be treated in several ways; more severe cases are often best treated with a combined surgical and orthodontic approach, where others may be treated with the removal of teeth and orthodontic treatment, or simply orthodontic treatment alone.
To find out more about crossbites, and your treatment options, contact us today to organise a free consultation with Specialist Orthodontist, Dr David Austin.