A crossbite happens when one or more upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when you close your mouth. It can affect a single tooth or several teeth, and it may occur toward the front or back of the mouth. If left untreated, some crossbites can contribute to uneven tooth wear or problems with how the teeth and jaws fit together.

Orthodontic treatment can help guide the teeth into a healthier position and improve the way your bite comes together.

What Causes A Crossbite?

Crossbites can develop for several reasons. Some children inherit jaw differences, while others develop habits or have changes in tooth position that affect their bite. A crossbite can also appear as permanent teeth come in.

Because children’s jaws are still developing, an orthodontic evaluation can help identify a crossbite and determine whether treatment is appropriate.

How Orthodontics Can Help

The right treatment depends on your child’s age, the location of the crossbite, and how the teeth and jaws are developing. Treatment may include:

• Braces to gradually move teeth into better positions
• Expanders to widen a narrow upper jaw when appropriate
• Other orthodontic appliances designed for your child’s specific bite

Early treatment can sometimes make it easier to correct certain developing bite problems. However, not every crossbite needs immediate treatment. An orthodontist can monitor your child’s growth and recommend treatment when the timing is right.

Why Treat A Crossbite?

Correcting a crossbite can help improve the way your child’s teeth come together. It may also help create more balanced tooth positioning as the smile develops.

Your child’s orthodontic needs are unique, so treatment should be based on a thorough evaluation rather than age alone. Regular dental and orthodontic visits allow the developing bite to be monitored over time.

Help Your Child Develop A Healthier Bite

A crossbite may be easy to overlook, especially when your child has no discomfort. If you notice that some teeth sit behind the others when your child bites down, an orthodontic evaluation can provide helpful answers.

Schedule an appointment to learn whether orthodontic treatment could help correct your child’s crossbite and support healthy smile development.

Contact Dr. Claire Stroede to schedule an appointment at one of our Stroede Orthodontics locations:

• Olathe, KS 66062 office at 913-491-3400
• Overland Park, KS 66223 office at 913-491-3400
• Spring Hill, KS 66083 office at 913-491-3400