Cross Bite, meaning a misaligned dental condition in which one or more teeth are not properly aligned with the upper and lower jaw can cause difficult problems. In other words, the upper teeth bite on the inside of the lower teeth, rather than the outside. Crossbite can occur in the front teeth, the side teeth, or even in the back teeth.
What is a Crossbite?
Crossbite can cause a number of detrimental effects to the health of the mouth. It can lead to jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty chewing. It can also result in the wearing down of the teeth and even cause gum disease. In some cases, it can even lead to the need for orthodontic treatment.
Crossbite is often caused by an incorrect bite or an improper occlusion. It can also be caused by a misalignment of the jaw or an improper jaw development. Other potential causes include missing teeth, abnormal jaw growth, or a tongue-tie.
In some cases, crossbite can be corrected without the need for orthodontic treatment. For example, if the misalignment is caused by a missing tooth, a dental bridge or implant can be used to replace the missing tooth and restore proper alignment. If the misalignment is due to a tongue-tie, a simple release procedure can be performed to correct the problem.
In more severe cases, however, orthodontic treatment may be necessary to correct the misalignment. In these cases, a variety of treatments can be used, including braces, aligners, and headgear. In some cases, jaw surgery may even be necessary.
Crossbite can be a serious issue, as it can lead to a number of dental problems and can even cause jaw pain and headaches. If you think you may have a crossbite, it is important to speak with your dentist or orthodontist as soon as possible to get an accurate diagnosis and begin treatment.
How to Treat Crossbite?
The first step in treating crossbite is to schedule an appointment with an orthodontist. During this visit, the orthodontist will take X-rays and perform a physical examination of the mouth to assess the severity of the crossbite. Based on the results of this examination, the orthodontist will then recommend a treatment plan which may involve wearing braces, using a palate expander, or undergoing jaw surgery.
Braces are the most common method used to treat cross bite. The braces are designed to move the teeth into their correct position and can be worn for anywhere from six months to two years. The type of braces used to treat crossbite may be traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, or lingual braces (which are placed on the tongue side of the teeth).
In some cases, a palate expander may be recommended to widen the upper jaw and create more space for the teeth to move into. This device is usually worn for several months and is designed to gently widen the upper jaw over time.
In severe cases of cross bite, jaw surgery may be recommended. This procedure may involve breaking the bones of the upper and/or lower jaw and realigning them, or reshaping the jawbone with a bone graft. Surgery is usually the last resort and is only recommended if other treatments have been unsuccessful in correcting the crossbite.
In addition to the treatments mentioned above, there are several other ways to help reduce the symptoms of crossbite. These include avoiding hard foods, practicing good oral hygiene, and wearing a night guard to prevent teeth grinding.
No matter which treatment is used, it is important to follow the orthodontist’s instructions and attend all follow-up appointments. With proper care and treatment, cross bite can be successfully corrected and a healthy, beautiful smile can be achieved.
