Do you have crowded teeth or what appears to be an overbite? These misalignment issues may cause problems in the long run and won’t resolve themselves on their own.
A crossbite is a severe problem that, if not corrected with professional care, can cause speech, dental health, and other problems as you grow and develop.
Read on to learn about what a crossbite is, how to spot one, and what causes a crossbite.
Abnormal Jaw Growth
This misalignment can occur due to abnormal jaw growth. A crossbite can happen if the upper and lower jaws do not grow at the same rate. Also, if the position of one jaw is too forward or backward, a crossbite can form.
Prolonged Thumb or Finger Sucking
Prolonged thumb or finger sucking is a common cause of crossbite. Children who suck their thumbs or fingers over a long period can cause their upper teeth to move inward.
This, in turn, causes them to fit over the lower teeth when the mouth is closed. Parents should observe their children to avoid crossbites and prevent them from sucking their thumbs or fingers.
Mouth Breathing
The constant dryness of the mouth can also lead to increased oral bacteria, which can cause further misalignment of the upper and lower jaw. Over time, the jaw will shift out of alignment leading to a crossbite.
It is important to note that mouth breathing can lead to other oral issues such as gingivitis, cavities, and bad breath, so seeking crossbite treatment for underlying breathing problems is essential to addressing this.
Premature Loss of Baby Teeth
When baby teeth fall out too early, their permanent replacements (adult teeth) can grow incorrectly due to insufficient support. When this happens, the adult teeth don’t meet correctly and instead cut off the mouth’s natural airway, forcing the upper teeth to fit inside the lower teeth.
To prevent a crossbite, it is essential to ensure baby teeth are lost at the appropriate age, and if premature, reliable dentofacial orthopedics should be consulted to plan the next steps.
Lack of Adequate Dental Care
Lack of adequate dental care is one of the major causes of a crossbite. This occurs when the upper teeth are outside the lower teeth or, the lower teeth are outside the upper teeth.
If a person does not receive enough early oral care, this can cause teeth to become misaligned and a crossbite to occur.
Injury or Trauma
Injury or trauma can cause a crossbite when the upper and lower teeth do not meet but overlap, usually with the upper teeth overlapping the lower teeth.
Trauma to the face or injury to the jaw can cause parts or all the upper teeth to be misaligned. This may include facial fractures, dislocated jaws, improper formation of jawbones, or an imbalanced bite due to uneven amounts of pressure when the jaws close.
Learn What Causes a Crossbite Now
Generally, what causes a crossbite is the misalignment of the teeth and jaw or sucking on fingers during childhood. If you or your child experiences crossbites, contact your dentist for help.
With the help of orthodontic treatment, crossbites can be corrected and a correct bite restored. So, schedule a consultation today!
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