Crossbite Correction
A crossbite happens when your lower teeth cover one or more of your upper teeth when you bite. This irregular and intermittent contact of your upper and lower teeth can happen in several places in the mouth and cause a variety of health problems.
Crossbite Correction Treatment
A crossbite is common among young people and adults and can cause issues such as headaches, jaw pain, and tooth decay, and other health and jaw development problems if it’s not corrected.
Crossbites are a form of malocclusion, which is an irregular or rough contact between the upper and lower teeth. When the upper and lower teeth align, chewing, and biting is easier. If they are misaligned it can lead to worn enamel, cracked and broken teeth, jaw misalignment, and a variety of other symptoms.
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What is a crossbite?
A crossbite is a bite misalignment in which one or more upper teeth sit inside — rather than slightly outside — the lower teeth when biting down. It can affect the front teeth (anterior crossbite) or the back teeth (posterior crossbite) and may involve a single tooth or an entire section of the arch. Left untreated, crossbites can lead to uneven jaw growth, facial asymmetry, and accelerated tooth wear.
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Is a crossbite in a child serious?
Yes. Unlike some childhood bite issues that self-correct with development, crossbites do not resolve on their own — and they typically worsen over time. A posterior crossbite is especially concerning because it can cause the lower jaw to shift consistently to one side, leading to uneven jaw growth and visible facial asymmetry. Early evaluation and treatment are strongly recommended.
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When is the best time to treat a child's crossbite?
The optimal time to correct a crossbite in children is during the growth years — often as early as ages 6 or 7. At this stage, the palate and jaw are still actively growing and respond well to orthopedic treatment. Crossbites corrected early often require less complex intervention than those addressed after the jaw has finished growing.
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How is a crossbite corrected in children?
A palate expander is the most common treatment for a posterior crossbite — it gradually widens the upper arch over several months to bring the upper and lower teeth into proper alignment. For anterior crossbites, braces or a custom bite plate may be used to reposition individual teeth. In some cases, a combination of approaches is needed. The specific treatment plan is tailored to your child’s age, jaw development, and the type and extent of the crossbite.
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How long does crossbite treatment take for a child?
Treatment time for a crossbite varies by severity. A palate expander is typically worn for 6 to 12 months, followed by a retention period to allow the new bone to stabilize. If follow-up orthodontic treatment with braces or aligners is needed, total treatment time will be longer. After evaluating your child, our orthodontic team will provide a clear timeline so you know what to expect.
More Questions?
If you have more questions about crossbite correction, please contact our office, request an appointment for your child, or explore the other pediatric dental services we provide.