A crossbite is a common bite problem in which some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when you bite down, instead of slightly outside them. It can involve a single tooth or a whole side of the mouth, and it's worth correcting even when it doesn't look dramatic.
Types of crossbite
| Type | What it looks like |
|---|---|
| Anterior crossbite | One or more upper front teeth sit behind the lower front teeth |
| Posterior crossbite | Upper back teeth sit inside the lower back teeth, on one or both sides |
| Single-tooth crossbite | Just one tooth is out of position, often a front tooth |
Signs you might have one
- When you bite together, some upper teeth are hidden behind lower teeth.
- Your jaw shifts slightly to one side as you close.
- Uneven wear, chipping or recession on specific teeth
- Your smile looks lopsided or your lower jaw looks off-center.
Why it matters
- Teeth caught in crossbite can wear unevenly or chip.
- Gums on the affected teeth can recede over time.
- A jaw that shifts to one side to close can lead to muscle strain.
- In growing children, an untreated shift can contribute to uneven jaw growth.
Dental or skeletal?
Some crossbites come from tipped or crowded teeth; others come from a difference in the size or width of the jaws. Your provider determines which with an exam, X-rays and a scan. The cause shapes the treatment.
Treatment options
- Clear aligners can correct many dental crossbites in teens and adults by moving teeth into the right position and widening the arch where there's room to do so.
- In children, a palatal expander can widen a narrow upper jaw while it's still growing.
- Braces are another effective option, especially combined with other appliances.
- Significant skeletal crossbites in adults may need a combination of orthodontics and jaw surgery.
When to get it checked
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic check-up by age 7, when crossbites are often easiest to correct. Adults with a crossbite can still be treated; it's never too late to have it evaluated.
An Infinity Aligner certified provider in Oklahoma can assess your bite and tell you whether clear aligners are the right approach for your crossbite.
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