A crossbite, a type of malocclusion or misalignment of teeth where your upper teeth fit inside of your lower teeth, can be fixed in a few different ways depending on the scope of the crossbite.
There are two types of crossbites, including:
- Posterior crossbite- The back teeth are affected, causing the upper teeth to sit inside the bottom teeth.
- Anterior crossbite- The front teeth are affected, so one or more top teeth sit behind the bottom teeth.
If a crossbite is not corrected, it can lead to the jaw shifting to one side, wearing down the tooth enamel or lopsided jaw growth. It can also cause chipping in the teeth, gum recession, or cause notches in the gum line, leading to painful gum issues and possibly even bone loss.
Treatments for Correcting an Overbite
Treatment for a crossbite may involve the use of a palatal expander. This is a fixed or removable orthodontic appliance that is used to make the upper jaw wider. The palatal expander is used in conjunction with an appliance the is designed to move the teeth, such as braces or clear aligners, like Invisalign.
Invisalign clear aligners can help some types of crossbite. These clear aligners provide a discreet, convenient, and comfortable way to treat your crossbite. Your doctor will make a mold of your teeth to create custom aligners. You will receive a series of aligners throughout your treatment to gently move your teeth into the desired position.
Experienced Invisalign Provider in McMurray
Our experienced orthodontist in McMurray will evaluate your crossbite to determine if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment. Contact Severns Dentistry & Orthodontics today to learn more about how we can help you correct your crossbite.
