A crossbite is a common misalignment affecting the lower and upper jaw. It can lead to discomfort and pain. A crossbite causes more serious dental issues like gum disease in some cases.
Traditional braces were the only available treatment for crossbite in the past, but since the introduction of Invisalign aligners, more people are opting for clear aligners to correct their crossbite.
If you want to correct your crossbite with Invisalign aligners, here are some things you should know.
What is a crossbite?
A crossbite is a malocclusion that makes the upper teeth sit directly on the lower teeth or inside when the mouth is closed. The normal position of the upper teeth is slightly in front of the lower teeth when you close your mouth.
Common signs of a crossbite include:
- Headaches
- Jaw problems
- Frequent toothaches
- Pain while chewing or biting
What causes a crossbite?
In most cases, crossbite results from genetics, meaning you may inherit it from your parents. Other causes of crossbite arise from unhealthy habits in childhood.
Habits such as extensive pacifier use, breathing through the mouth and thumb sucking can cause crossbite. Factors like abnormal or delayed tooth growth may also cause a crossbite
Why do you need to correct a crossbite?
Treating a crossbite early is important because besides the discomfort while carrying out dental function, a crossbite can cause several other dental problems. Some complications resulting in a crossbite are:
- An odd-looking smile
- Speech impediments
- Poor sleep quality
- Plaque accumulation
- TMJ disorder
- Gum disease leading to bone loss
- Wearing out of the teeth faster than normal
- Inability to chew and bite properly
- Low self-esteem
- Deformed jawline
How can a dentist correct a crossbite with Invisalign?
If you have a crossbite and need Invisalign treatment, schedule an appointment with an invisible braces provider in London. The provider will examine your teeth carry out scans and 3D imaging of your mouth.
During the visit, you will get dental exams and checks for signs of crossbite. Then the Invisalign dentist will recommend a suitable treatment for you.
Does Invisalign correct a crossbite?
Yes, it does. Invisalign can correct most cases of crossbites. Your Invisalign provider will show you how Invisalign will transform your smile during your smile assessment. After creating the treatment plan and taking your dental scans and x-rays, you will have another appointment to get your custom-made aligners and have them fitted.
The aligners are virtually invisible. You will use each set of aligners for 5 – 7 days, or longer depending on your treatment plan, until your teeth move to the correct positions.
How long does Invisalign treatment for crossbite take?
The duration of treatment for correcting a crossbite with Invisalign will depend on the severity of the crossbite. After the dentist develops the 3D image sod your teeth, you will wait for 1 – 2 for the aligners to be created.
The number of aligners created will determine how long you will wear the aligners. Generally, correcting a mild crossbite takes up to three months, and severe cases last for about 18 months.
Benefits of using Invisalign to correct a crossbite
Some benefits of Invisalign treatment over traditional metal braces are:
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Comfort
Invisalign aligners cause little or no pain because they apply gentle pressure to move the teeth and jaw into the correct position. You don’t have to deal with elastics, wires and metal brackets.
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Invisibility
Invisalign aligners are less noticeable, and you won’t feel embarrassed whenever you smile because most people won’t notice you are wearing aligners.
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Enhanced self-confidence
Fixing your crossbite with Invisalign will enhance your smile, self-esteem and confidence, which improve social interaction.
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Custom-fit
Your aligner will be custom-made using the 3D image of your teeth to transform your smile gradually.
Feel free to visit our Harley street dental clinic or call 020 7183 4091 to schedule an appointment at Smile Dental Works to consult with our experienced Invisalign provider.