Types of Crossbites, Explained by an Orthodontist [Video Breakdown]

Crossbites are relatively common orthodontic issues among patients who come into the office. They are a category of malocclusion, or bad bite. Crossbites describe when one or more upper teeth fit inside the lower teeth when a patient bites down. However, they also come in several more specific varieties. Our orthodontists are highly experienced in treating a wide range of bite issues, including various types of crossbites. During a free consultation, we can assess the exact type of crossbite the patient has. Then, we create a treatment plan to improve the bite relation between the upper and lower jaws and teeth.

An Overview of the Different Types of Crossbites

We see a number of different types of crossbites quite frequently. One common pattern we see is called a unilateral posterior crossbite. This happens when the upper jaw is too narrow. When the jaw is not wide enough to capture the lower jaw on center, the patient will shift their lower jaw to one side to find a comfortable place to bite. Other patients may have a narrower upper jaw, resulting in a bilateral crossbite. This occurs when the upper teeth fit on the inside of the lower teeth on both sides.

In that condition, the patient generally does not shift their jaw to one side or the other because they can get comfortable in their midline.

Crossbites can occur between individual teeth. In many cases, they can happen between front teeth. Sometimes, a crossbite is a sign of a poor relationship between the lower and upper jaws in terms of their size and shape. Patients who have protruding lower jaws or large lower jaws, or what we describe as Class III malocclusion, may have an anterior crossbite. This is where their front teeth are behind their lower front teeth.

As you can see from these definitions, crossbites come in many forms and can look very different from patient to patient. Regardless, our orthodontists always adjust our intervention to the patient’s unique dental and skeletal structure.

Different Treatment Options for Crossbite

At the Orthodontists Associates of Western New York, we provide personalized intervention to address your crossbite. Here is a survey of some of the most common orthodontic appliances we use to treat crossbites.

Palatal expanders: These are small devices attached to the upper teeth that gently widen the upper jaw. This allows the upper teeth to fit nicely outside the lower teeth and correct a crossbite.

Braces: These use either metal or ceramic brackets and wires to gradually move teeth into better alignment. We might use braces along with or after expanders to fully correct crossbite and straighten the smile.

Clear aligners: Sold under the Invisalign® brand, these are a series of removable, transparent trays that shift teeth step by step into their proper positions. Clear aligners can treat many mild to moderate crossbite cases without metal braces.

TADs: Temporary anchorage devices are tiny titanium screws placed in the jawbone that give orthodontists a fixed anchor point to apply precise forces. TADs move crossbite teeth or jaws without bulky headgear or invasive surgery.

No two crossbites are exactly the same. Likewise, no two treatment plans are identical. At Orthodontists Associates of Western New York, we address malocclusions such as crossbites and other bite issues with personalized interventions. The goal of orthodontic treatment remains the same for each patient: a healthy, beautiful smile. Because patient education is so important to us, we don’t charge for consultations until we begin treatment. That means you don’t need to commit to care before learning all about how orthodontic intervention can support you or your child.

Book a Free Consultation

There are many specific types of crossbite, but regardless of the type present, our orthodontists provide personalized intervention. Using orthodontic appliances to move the teeth and adjust the shape of the jaw, we can address crossbites so a patient can have a healthier, more beautiful smile that functions well.

We don’t charge until treatment begins. So it costs you nothing to learn your options for crossbite intervention. Book a free consultation at one of our seven offices conveniently located near you.