Correct Your Crossbite With Specialized Orthodontic Care
Crossbites are a common orthodontic issue that can cause pain, discomfort, and difficulty chewing. Dr. Stephen Grussmark explains what crossbites are and how to determine the best treatment. Our orthodontist specialist in South Florida proudly serves patients in Key Biscayne, Miami Beach, and Hialeah, FL.
What Are Crossbites?
A crossbite is a dental condition where the upper and lower teeth do not align properly when the mouth is closed. In a normal bite, the upper teeth fit slightly over the lower teeth. However, in a crossbite, the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth, which can cause various dental problems. A variety of factors can cause crossbites, such as genetics, mouth breathing, thumb sucking, or abnormal jaw growth.
Symptoms of Crossbites
Crossbites can cause a range of symptoms, including:
- Difficulty Biting and Chewing: Crossbites can cause discomfort when biting and chewing food.
- Tooth Wear and Damage: Over time, crossbites can cause excessive wear and damage to teeth, leading to an increased risk of decay and other dental problems.
- Jaw Pain and Discomfort: Misalignment of the teeth can put stress on the jaw, leading to pain and discomfort.
- Speech Problems: Crossbites can affect speech, causing difficulty pronouncing certain sounds and words.
- Headaches: Chronic headaches can be caused by the strain and tension on the jaw and surrounding muscles due to crossbites.
- Uneven Facial Appearance: Crossbites can cause facial asymmetry, making it appear distorted.
- Gum Problems: Crossbites can cause gum recession, leading to sensitivity, pain, and an increased risk of gum disease.
It’s crucial to seek treatment for crossbites to alleviate these symptoms and prevent further damage to the teeth and jaw. Schedule a consultation with our Miami orthodontist to learn more.
Causes of Crossbites
Crossbites can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, habits, and oral development. Some of the most common causes of crossbites include:
- Genetics: You can inherit the shape and size of your jaw from your parents, which affects the alignment of your teeth and how your bite comes together.
- Thumb-Sucking: Prolonged thumb-sucking or pacifier use can cause changes in the structure of the jaw and teeth, leading to crossbites.
- Mouth Breathing: Breathing through your mouth instead of your nose can also impact jaw and teeth development, leading to crossbites.
- Abnormal Tooth Growth: Teeth that grow abnormally can cause a misaligned bite, increasing the risk of developing a crossbite.
- Dental Trauma: Injuries to the jaw or teeth can also cause misalignment, resulting in crossbites.
- Late Tooth Eruption: A delayed eruption of teeth can cause other teeth to shift and lead to crossbites.
- Poor Oral Habits: Poor oral habits, such as grinding or clenching your teeth, can also cause crossbites.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are crossbites diagnosed?
A dentist or orthodontist usually diagnoses crossbites during a dental exam. The dental professional will examine your teeth and jaw to determine if a crossbite is present. They may also take X-rays or use other diagnostic tools to get a better look at your teeth and jaw.
What happens if crossbites are left untreated?
If crossbites are left untreated, they can cause various dental problems. They can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and even tooth loss. Crossbites can also cause pain in the jaw, headaches, and difficulty speaking and chewing.
How long does treatment for crossbites take?
The length of treatment for crossbites depends on the condition’s severity. Mild cases may be corrected in a few months, while more severe cases may require treatment for a year or more. Treatment options include braces, retainers, and other orthodontic devices.
Will insurance cover crossbite treatment?
Insurance coverage for crossbite treatment depends on your specific insurance policy. Some policies may cover orthodontic treatment, while others may not. Check with your insurance provider to determine what is covered under your policy.
Get Your Bite Back on Track: Schedule an Appointment Today
Don’t let your orthodontic problems worsen and potentially cause more serious health issues down the line. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Grussmark today to discuss your options for correcting your bite. With the right treatment, you can improve your dental health and restore your smile. Don’t wait, take action now by calling our Miami, FL, office at (305) 441-1200.
