Reproduced from the About Your Smile Series    More Articles
Previously appearing in The Rome News-Tribune
by S. Jeffrey Crews, D.M.D.

Crossbite Correction

By Jeffrey Crews, D.M.D.

Normally, the lower front teeth close inside the upper ones and the upper side teeth close over the outer edges of the lower side teeth. However, due to growth discrepancies, muscle imbalances, and other factors that pull the jaw to the side, a lateral crossbite may develop. This malocclusion is characterized by some or all of the teeth of the lower jaw closing outside (or across) the upper teeth. Crossbite may also result from an upper jaw that is more narrow than the lower jaw. This type of crossbite is often associated with mouth breathing, especially in allergic children. Whatever the cause, treatment of crossbites should be considered as soon as the condition is diagnosed. Early treatment that takes advantage of growing bones can be most effective in restoring normal width to the upper jaw with special orthodontic/orthopedic appliances. The active appliance known as a palatal expander is sometimes used to widen the arch of a narrow upper jaw. The orthodontist develops a plan of treatment for each individual patient. The patient’s age, growth pattern, and ability to cooperate in treatment are all important factors that the doctor will consider when selecting the proper treatment. Appliances used to reposition the teeth will vary depending on the patient’s particular problem. For more information about individual concerns, call my office at 291-2901 and schedule a consultation. PS Patients with restricted nasal passages may notice improved breathing ability after corrective widening of the upper jaw.

© S. Jeffrey Crews, DMD, PC - No reproduction without authorization.

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MD Article ©Matthew Dingley 2003