Crossbite Correction
Correcting a crossbite improves your smile’s appearance, protects teeth from uneven wear, and supports proper jaw alignment. Treatment can reduce discomfort, enhance chewing and speech, and promote long-term oral health, helping you feel more confident and comfortable every day.
Crossbite Correction in Tinton Falls, NJ
Crossbite is a common issue among both young people and adults. If left uncorrected, it can lead to problems such as headaches, jaw pain, tooth decay, and other health and jaw development issues. A crossbite is a malocclusion, which refers to irregular or improper contact between the upper and lower teeth. Proper alignment of the upper and lower teeth makes chewing and biting easier. Misalignment can result in worn enamel, cracked and broken teeth, jaw misalignment, and various other symptoms.
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How Are Crossbites Treated?
Correcting a crossbite often involves orthodontic treatment, such as braces. Braces are commonly used during childhood or early adolescence when the jaws are still developing. However, seeking treatment at any age is possible, as orthodontists can treat children and adults. Treatment is often done in phases and may involve the extraction of baby or permanent teeth. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary, performed by a maxillofacial surgeon to adjust the lower jaw for proper teeth alignment.
Proper oral care, including brushing and flossing, is crucial for the best treatment results. Keeping teeth clean and healthy can be challenging with braces, but dental hygienists can recommend techniques to prevent decay.
Orthodontists can more easily adjust the shape and alignment of jaws and teeth in younger patients, but braces and dental restorations can still effectively correct mild misalignments in older patients. However, severe crossbites may require jaw surgery.
The recommended treatment for crossbite depends on the patient’s age, the cause of the crossbite, and the type of crossbite. There are six possible treatment options:
1. Braces: Used to straighten upper and lower teeth for proper bite alignment in children and adults.
2. Palatal Expanders: Fixed or removable expanders can increase the size of a small upper jaw so that it aligns with the lower jaw.
3. Headgear: Helps adjust the growth of the jaw and is typically prescribed for children and teenagers.
4. Tooth removal: Creating more space before fitting braces is recommended.
5. Dental restorations: Bonding, capping, and reshaping teeth to improve mild misalignments.
6. Surgery: Corrective surgery may be necessary for adults with more challenging jaw adjustments.
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What causes a crossbite?
A crossbite occurs when the upper and lower teeth don’t align properly when the mouth closes. It can be caused by genetics, delayed or abnormal tooth eruption, prolonged thumb sucking or pacifier use, mouth breathing, or a mismatch in jaw size. Early evaluation is important, as untreated crossbites can affect chewing, tooth wear, and jaw development. Fortunately, orthodontic treatment can correct most cases effectively with timely care from professionals.
Learn More About Crossbite Correction
If you have more questions about crossbite correction or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact our office today!
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