What is a Crossbite? What are the Signs and Treatments?

Did you know that the worldwide prevalence of a crossbite is around 56%. The word “crossbite” might sound unfamiliar but the condition is not. It is high time we deduce and explore  the condition of crossbite and understand its signs and treatment options. Crossbite is a dental condition that is linked with misalignment of your teeth. When teeth are aligned correctly, the upper teeth will fit slightly over the lower teeth. While in crossbite, the opposite happens. If you have a crossbite, the upper teeth fit behind your lower teeth when your mouth is closed or resting. This hugely impacts the front of  your mouth or toward the back of your mouth. This condition is considered fairly common by dentists and orthodontists. 

Let us have a look at some of the major symptoms of crossbite: 

1. A crossbite can put undue pressure on your jaw joint leading to TMJ disorders and chronic jaw pain.
   
   
2. Crossbites come in a package deal and bring along with them severe headaches. Teeth are used to support your jaw muscles and as well as your facial muscles. So when teeth aren't properly aligned, it affects your jaw joint which is linked with the nerves that connect to your brain, resulting in headaches.
   
   
3. It can be extremely difficult to keep misaligned teeth clean. The food stuck between the teeth leads to bacterial growth and cavities causing tooth decay.
   
   
4. Jaw discomfort can create trouble chewing or biting food.
   
   
5. Speech problems like a lisp are also one of the early indicators of crossbite.

Now that we have looked at some of the symptoms, let's discuss some of the treatment options too:

1. Orthodontic treatments like braces are the most reliable when it comes to realignment of teeth and can significantly help in dealing with crossbite.
   
   
2. Clear aligners are also another form of orthodontic treatment just like braces which help you realign your teeth.
   
   
3. Rapid Palate Expander is a device used to widen the upper jaw which is also another way to treat crossbite. However, it is only beneficial if the condition is identified early on.
   
   
4. Another treatment option are elastics that are prescribed by orthodontists. 

In conclusion, crossbite is a condition which when identified in its early stages can prevent you from a lot of trouble. However, there is no harm in still taking care of your dental health, and guess who is here to make it easier for you? The best electric toothbrush and water jet flosser by ORACURA can help you clean your teeth thoroughly even if you have braces on. Brush and floss twice a day and achieve dental health at its finest.