What is a Crossbite?
An overbite is a particular type of occlusion where the top set of teeth rest beyond the bottom set of teeth. A small overbite is common in many people, but too much of an overbite and a patient can experience other more serious issues.
An underbite on the other hand is the exact opposite of an overbite. Due to a deformity or as the result of an interruption in development, the lower teeth may rest in front of the top teeth. No amount of underbite is considered “normal”, and as with an overbite this can cause other more serious issues.
The two aforementioned bites are among the most common and well known. However, there are several others, including a crossbite. A crossbite is a malocclusion where corresponding teeth on the top and bottom of a jaw are different distances from the cheek or side of mouth. In this case, one of the teeth will fall inside of its corresponding partner tooth instead of mirroring it exactly.
A major cause behind a crossbite is heredity. If one’s parents have or had a crossbite, there is an increased chance that they will experience a crossbite as well. Additionally, the premature loss of a baby or “primary” tooth can result in a crossbite.
Treatment for a crossbite can include dental headgear, braces, or even surgery depending on severity. If you have any questions regarding your bite, or are concerned that it isn’t as straight as it should be – feel free to contact our offices for more information.
