A crossbite is known as a misalignment of teeth where they are positioned improperly. When the teeth are closer to the tongue or cheek instead of their ideal position, it would indicate a crossbite. When you have a crossbite, you won’t be able to close your jaws properly, making it difficult for you to eat or speak. Crossbites can have psychological effects and might cause low self-esteem and confidence while speaking to people. Treating crossbites is extremely important, as neglecting the treatment procedures can lead to improper growth of the jaw, resulting in one side of the jaw growing abruptly. Let’s know the most common signs of crossbite and how it can be treated effectively by a dentist in San Diego, CA.
- Signs of Crossbite: The signs of crossbite will depend on your condition and the severity of the symptoms. Most of the time, the two rows within the teeth won’t be able to touch each other. You may not be able to speak properly due to the misalignment of the jaw. Even if you speak, the words will be tangled. In severe cases, you will end up biting the tongue and cheek more often, especially while eating and speaking. Experiencing pain in the jaw is also normal, along with severe headaches. If you’re experiencing one or multiple symptoms of a crossbite, it’s safe to contact a dentist immediately.
- Effects of Crossbite: Knowing the effects of crossbite is important to ensure you’re taking perfect precautionary measures to address the symptoms. Apart from affecting your ability to speak and eat, a crossbite will also cause severe headaches. It will cause pressure on the nerves connecting the jaw to the head, causing pain in other regions, such as the neck and shoulder.
- Treatments: Most crossbite problems can be addressed with orthodontics that include options like braces. But if the condition is severe, the dentist might recommend headgear, surgery, tooth removal, or dental restorations. However, orthodontics is the most popular and most effective, as it can address crossbite problems without any side effects. Keep in mind that it’s never too late to seek dental care to address your crossbite problem. In rare cases, dentists might recommend surgery, especially when the symptoms are extremely severe and painful. Proper brushing and flossing are important to leverage the best benefits of the treatment.
Contact your dental hygienist, and they will help you choose the best treatment option for your crossbite. As the treatment plans are fully customized, they will first evaluate your condition and determine which treatment would work the best.
