How To Fix Crossbite In Adults?

As an adult some orthodontic procedures that are used in children will not be as effective.   A palatal expander is used to help widen the upper palate to help correct bite issues such as a crossbite.

A crossbite occurs when a lower tooth occurs on the wrong side of the upper tooth.   This can involve just one tooth or several at a time. 

A crossbite is actually quite common and goes undiagnosed most of the time.  Severe crossbites will affect a person speech and chewing in which it is important to get it corrected.  However minor crossbites are usually not reason enough to undergo full orthodontic treatment, especially when on the back molars. 

Adults that seek to have a crossbite fixed will be able to try a palatal expander depending on how much movement is needed.  Just a small amount of movement on the upper tooth to overlap the bottom is all that is needed to improve the bite.     Adults can expect the process to take quite a bit longer than a younger person.

Unfortunately, a moderate to severe crossbite that gives a person issues with facial appearance, chewing or speech, will need to undergo crossbite surgery to have it fixed.   Braces and the combination of an expander may be an option to try first, however in many cases surgery is the sure bet.   With today’s technology Invisalign to fix a crossbite is also becoming an option, so it is important to get many opinions and ask to see before and after results of situations similar to yours.