What is a Crossbite and How to Fix it?
There are different types of teeth alignment problems that bother kids and adults alike. One of them is crossbites. This is an orthodontic problem that requires proper attention from a Carlsbad orthodontist. The causes of crossbite and the various treatment options will be looked at in detail in this article.
Crossbite Explained
A misalignment in the upper and lower teeth is what causes crossbite. In a crossbite, the upper set of teeth sits inside the lower set of teeth when the jaws are closed. Ideally, the top teeth and bottom teeth should come together and sit in the correct position with neither upper or lower set sticking out or pulling back. Crossbite may be an outcome of irregular tooth or jaw position. It affects the front and sides of the mouth. If you suspect your child has a crossbite, get their teeth examined by an orthodontist in Carlsbad CA.
Anterior Crossbite and Posterior Crossbite
Anterior refers to the front portion and an anterior crossbite is a misalignment of the front teeth in the top row with the front teeth in the bottom row. You have an anterior crossbite if you notice that your upper front teeth sit behind the lower anterior teeth. In severe cases of crossbite, the lower front teeth may completely hide the upper front teeth.
The second type is posterior crossbite that can affect either one side or both sides of the mouth. Caused due to the contraction of the palate and teeth in the upper jaw, the top back teeth are inside the bottom back teeth in this type of crossbite. Both the conditions require diagnosis and treatment from an orthodontist Carlsbad.
Treatment Options for Crossbite
The below mentioned Carlsbad Orthodontics treatments have proven effective against crossbite.
Invisalign
Invisalign are clear aligners made out of medical grade plastic that can help you recover from crossbite. The plastic trays cover the biting surfaces of upper and lower teeth. The teeth don’t come in direct contact with each other. Invisalign is aesthetically pleasing and blends with the natural color of the teeth. Contact your orthodontist in Oceanside CA to get a customized set of aligners that best fit your teeth. Depending on the severity of the issue, it may take three to 18 months for the alignment to be rectified.
Braces
Braces are commonly used to treat most orthodontic problems. If only one tooth needs to be corrected, braces alone can move the tooth to its ideal position. If more than one tooth is in a crossbite, the Carlsbad orthodontist will recommend the use of a dental expansion appliance or headgear to be used along with braces.
Rapid Palatal Expander
These are highly effective to rectify posterior crossbites. Avail rapid palatal expander treatment from an experienced orthodontist in Carlsbad CA trained to fit the appliance appropriately without causing discomfort to the patients. This device is fixed on the back teeth of the upper jaw and can expand narrow dental arches.
Reverse Pull Headgear
Also called as facemask, this is a dental appliance that pulls the upper jaw forward to correct the alignment of the teeth. This device is made up of pads. The orthodontist Carlsbad attaches the headgear made up of pads to the forehead and chin. This treatment improves facial appearance as the elastics help the lower jaw grow downward and backward.
Jaw Surgery
Jaw surgery is an option if the case is too severe. But you should first speak to your orthodontist in Oceanside CA to determine whether the misalignment can be treated using one of the above mentioned options. Go for a surgery only if your doctor says so.
Also Read: Common Misconceptions About Orthodontic Treatments
Conclusion
Visit Captain Floss, the best orthodontist in Carlsbad to treat a misaligned bite with multiple treatment options. Consulting an orthodontist at an early stage can prevent future complications and help fix alignment issues with ease.