When you visit us at Lyons Orthodontics, you will be treated with the utmost care. We will guide you through every step of your treatment plan. We will help you from the initial consultation all the way to the big smile reveal. One important part of your treatment plan is understanding the different reasons behind the treatment, i.e., crossbites. A crossbite is one of the more common misalignments orthodontists see today. So, what is a crossbite? Sacramento orthodontists explain what you need to know about a crossbite.
Understanding the Crossbite
A crossbite is a type of misalignment. In a typical case, the upper teeth fit inside of the lower teeth when the jaw is closed. This type of tooth misalignment can impact just a single tooth or several groups of teeth. It can involve the back teeth, the front teeth, or all of the teeth. Each case is different and will be evaluated individually.
An anterior crossbite involves the front top teeth sitting behind the teeth on your bottom jaw, whereas a posterior crossbite involves the back upper teeth sitting on the inside of the lower teeth.
Causes of a Crossbite
There are several causes behind a crossbite, with genetics often being the primary culprit. According to Dr. Tim Lyons, the best orthodontist Sacramento, explains that a delay in the loss of baby teeth or an abnormal permanent teeth eruption can also result in a crossbite. Dr. Kristina Neda, a Georgetown KY dentist, says that another cause of a crossbite could include prolonged thumb-sucking, as it can generate pressure against the teeth. The teeth in our mouth are constantly shifting and can be pushed out of place with any type of pressure, which is what makes orthodontic solutions possible.
Why is it Important to Fix a Crossbite?
A child with a crossbite may have an underlying problem with their jaw. These concerns are best addressed with orthodontic solutions when they are still young and developing. There are several concerns that could become a reality if a crossbite is not corrected, including the following:
-
- Jaw growth may be uneven
- Shifting of the jaw to one side
- Uneven wear on tooth enamel
How is a Crossbite Corrected?
There are a number of treatment options for a crossbite. Your orthodontist, Dr. Lyons, will need to evaluate your unique condition in order to create the treatment plan that will best meet your needs. Treatment could include a palatal expander, which will gradually widen the upper jaw. Typically, a palatal expander is used in conjunction with braces on top teeth or clear aligner trays.
It can take several months before results are seen, with routine follow-up appointments to track your progress. If you are in need of an orthodontist in Sacramento, contact Lyons Orthodontics for a no-obligation consultation. We can help you obtain the smile you’ve always wanted through braces or Invisalign!