A crossbite can be more than just a cosmetic issue—it can impact your overall oral health and well-being. From difficulty chewing to jaw pain, the effects of a crossbite can interfere with your everyday life.
The good news is that with proper orthodontic treatment, a crossbite is completely treatable. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about crossbites, from identifying their causes to exploring effective treatment options.
Here is everything you need to know about a crossbite correction.
Understanding Crossbites
A crossbite occurs when your upper teeth fall inside your lower teeth when you bite down. While it may sound simple, crossbites can take different forms depending on their location and severity.
Types of Crossbites:
- Posterior Crossbite – Upper back teeth sit inside the lower back teeth.
- Anterior Crossbite – The upper front teeth sit behind the lower front teeth.
- Unilateral Crossbite – The crossbite affects only one side of the mouth.
Causes of Crossbites:
- Genetics: If orthodontic issues run in your family, you may be predisposed to a crossbite.
- Childhood Habits: Thumb-sucking or prolonged pacifier use can impact jaw alignment.
- Delayed Dental Development: When baby teeth fall out too early or too late, jaw alignment may be compromised.
Understanding the root cause of your crossbite is the first step in determining the most effective treatment plan.
Signs and Symptoms
How do you know if you have a crossbite?
Here are some common indicators to watch for:
- Difficulty Chewing: Misaligned teeth can make it challenging to break down food properly.
- Jaw Pain or Clicking: A crossbite may affect your jaw joints, causing discomfort or unusual noises when opening and closing your mouth.
- Uneven Tooth Wear: Teeth in a crossbite may experience excessive wear on one side, leading to further dental issues.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to consult with an orthodontist for an evaluation.
The Importance of Early Detection
Early detection is critical for effective crossbite treatment. Left untreated, a crossbite can lead to a host of complications, including gum recession, tooth chipping, and even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
If identified early—especially during childhood or adolescence—treatment is typically simpler and more effective.
Orthodontic experts like Dr. David Scaffidi here at Scaffidi Orthodontics emphasize that the sooner a crossbite is addressed, the better the long-term results.
Crossbite Correction Treatment Options
Orthodontic advancements have made fixing a crossbite more accessible and comfortable than ever.
Here are the most common treatment options:
1. Traditional Braces
- How They Work: Metal brackets and wires gradually shift your teeth into proper alignment.
- Timeline: Most crossbite braces last 12–24 months, depending on the severity of the crossbite.
- How They Work: Removable, nearly invisible trays are worn to progressively correct tooth alignment.
- Best For: Mild to moderate crossbites, particularly in adults and teens.
3. Palatal Expanders
- How They Work: These devices gradually widen the upper jaw to improve alignment.
- Best For: Children with growing jaws.
4. Jaw Surgery (Severe Cases)
- How It Works: Surgical intervention may be necessary for serious crossbite cases.
- Best For: Adults or individuals with significant jaw misalignment.
Dr. Scaffidi provides a tailored approach to every case, offering options like clear braces and aligners for a more seamless orthodontic experience.
Steps on How to Fix a Crossbite
Fixing a crossbite requires dedication and teamwork between you and your orthodontist. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to expect during your treatment process:
- Schedule an initial consultation with Scaffidi Orthodontics.
- Get images (X-rays/photographs) and impressions of your teeth for a full diagnosis.
- Discuss the recommended treatment options with Dr. Scaffidi, tailored to your specific type of crossbite.
- Begin treatment—regular visits ensure your progress is monitored closely.
- Complete your treatment plan and follow maintenance recommendations to keep your smile healthy and crossbite-free.
Our goal is to ensure you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted without sacrificing comfort or confidence.
Crossbite Correction Here at Scaffidi Orthodontics
At Scaffidi Orthodontics, we strive for more than just straight teeth—we aim to create beautiful, confident smiles. Here’s how to fix a crossbite and what you can expect your crossbite treatment with us:
- Initial Consultation: Meet with Dr. Scaffidi to discuss your concerns and receive a thorough evaluation using X-rays and photos.
- Customized Treatment Plan: Based on your unique needs, we’ll recommend the most effective treatment option for achieving optimal results.
- Ongoing Care: Regular check-ins with our team ensure your treatment stays on track and adjustments are made as needed.
- Final Results and Maintenance: Once your crossbite is corrected, we’ll create a plan to maintain your gorgeous new smile.
With three convenient locations in New Orleans, Kenner, and Slidell, we make it easy to attend appointments and stay on top of your treatment plan.
Why Choose Scaffidi Orthodontics?
- Personalized care tailored to your lifestyle.
- Access to modern techniques like clear aligners and ceramic braces.
- Same-day treatment options and flexible payment plans to fit your budget.
Your smile transformation begins here!
The Path to a Perfect Smile
Crossbite correction can transform your oral health and boost confidence—and there’s no better team to help than Scaffidi Orthodontics. From expert care to flexible payment options, we provide everything you need for a successful orthodontic experience.
Don’t wait to take the first step toward a healthier, more beautiful smile! Book your free consultation with Scaffidi Orthodontics today.
Schedule your free consultation today.