According to Bournemouth dentists, crossbites are a common orthodontic problem that affects both children and adults. A crossbite occurs when one or more of the upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth. This misalignment can cause a range of dental problems, including gum disease, tooth wear, and jaw pain.
Thankfully, there are various orthodontic solutions available to correct crossbites and restore proper dental alignment. In this article, we will explore some of these solutions as explained by Bournemouth dentists.
Braces
The most common orthodontic solution for correcting crossbites is braces. Orthodontic braces are devices that orthodontist bournemouth consist of wires and brackets that are attached to the teeth. The braces work by applying constant pressure to the teeth, which gradually moves them into the correct position.
For crossbite correction, braces can be applied to both the upper and lower teeth to gradually realign the bite. The length of treatment varies depending on the severity of the crossbite, but it typically takes around 18-24 months.
Invisalign
Invisalign is a popular alternative to traditional braces. It is a clear plastic aligner that is custom-made to fit over your teeth. Invisalign works by applying gentle pressure to your teeth, which gradually moves them into alignment.
Invisalign is an excellent option for correcting crossbites because it is virtually invisible, making it ideal for adults who may feel self-conscious about wearing braces. Additionally, it is removable, which means you can continue to eat your favorite foods and maintain good oral hygiene.
Surgical correction
In severe cases of crossbite, surgical correction may be necessary. This involves an oral surgeon making an incision in the bone and moving the upper jaw into the correct position. The jaw is then stabilized using screws and/or plates. This is a significant procedure that requires a hospital stay and a recovery period of several weeks to months.
Expansion appliances
Expansion appliances are devices that are bonded to the teeth and are used to widen the upper jaw. By expanding the jaw, we can create more space for the teeth to move into proper alignment. This helps to correct both overbites and crossbites.
The expansion appliance applies pressure to the jawbone, encouraging it to grow wider and the teeth to move into the correct position. The expansion process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the severity of the crossbite.
Palatal Expanders
Palatal expanders are orthodontic appliances that are used to correct crossbites in children. They are typically used on children between the ages of 7 and 12. The expander is attached to the upper teeth and is used to widen the palate of the mouth. This creates more space for the upper teeth to move into proper alignment.
Palatal expanders are typically worn for several months before being removed and replaced with braces. The length of treatment varies depending on the severity of the crossbite.
In conclusion, crossbites are a common orthodontic problem that can cause a range of dental problems, including tooth wear, gum disease, and jaw pain. Luckily, Bournemouth dentists can provide a range of orthodontic solutions to correct crossbites. These include braces, Invisalign, surgical correction, expansion appliances, and palatal expanders. If you have a crossbite, it is important to seek treatment from a qualified orthodontist as soon as possible to prevent further dental problems and restore proper dental function.
Thankfully, there are various orthodontic solutions available to correct crossbites and restore proper dental alignment. In this article, we will explore some of these solutions as explained by Bournemouth dentists.
Braces
The most common orthodontic solution for correcting crossbites is braces. Orthodontic braces are devices that orthodontist bournemouth consist of wires and brackets that are attached to the teeth. The braces work by applying constant pressure to the teeth, which gradually moves them into the correct position.
For crossbite correction, braces can be applied to both the upper and lower teeth to gradually realign the bite. The length of treatment varies depending on the severity of the crossbite, but it typically takes around 18-24 months.
Invisalign
Invisalign is a popular alternative to traditional braces. It is a clear plastic aligner that is custom-made to fit over your teeth. Invisalign works by applying gentle pressure to your teeth, which gradually moves them into alignment.
Invisalign is an excellent option for correcting crossbites because it is virtually invisible, making it ideal for adults who may feel self-conscious about wearing braces. Additionally, it is removable, which means you can continue to eat your favorite foods and maintain good oral hygiene.
Surgical correction
In severe cases of crossbite, surgical correction may be necessary. This involves an oral surgeon making an incision in the bone and moving the upper jaw into the correct position. The jaw is then stabilized using screws and/or plates. This is a significant procedure that requires a hospital stay and a recovery period of several weeks to months.
Expansion appliances
Expansion appliances are devices that are bonded to the teeth and are used to widen the upper jaw. By expanding the jaw, we can create more space for the teeth to move into proper alignment. This helps to correct both overbites and crossbites.
The expansion appliance applies pressure to the jawbone, encouraging it to grow wider and the teeth to move into the correct position. The expansion process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the severity of the crossbite.
Palatal Expanders
Palatal expanders are orthodontic appliances that are used to correct crossbites in children. They are typically used on children between the ages of 7 and 12. The expander is attached to the upper teeth and is used to widen the palate of the mouth. This creates more space for the upper teeth to move into proper alignment.
Palatal expanders are typically worn for several months before being removed and replaced with braces. The length of treatment varies depending on the severity of the crossbite.
In conclusion, crossbites are a common orthodontic problem that can cause a range of dental problems, including tooth wear, gum disease, and jaw pain. Luckily, Bournemouth dentists can provide a range of orthodontic solutions to correct crossbites. These include braces, Invisalign, surgical correction, expansion appliances, and palatal expanders. If you have a crossbite, it is important to seek treatment from a qualified orthodontist as soon as possible to prevent further dental problems and restore proper dental function.