Typically, when a parent brings a young child to the dentist, the last discussion theyre expecting to have is one centered on braces and orthodontic appliances. Yet, even at ages three and four, a talk about braces, sagittal expanders, and retainers can indeed be front and center when a child is diagnosed with a crossbite. The question then is what to do about it, how soon should intervention take place, and what the complications are that can arise if nothing is done at all. Lets get some answers.
Imagine for a moment, youre sitting in front of a nice soup bowl with a wide flat brim, and inside that bowl is hearty chowder youd like to keep warm until youre ready to devour it. So, you grab another bowl designed exactly like the first, and hover it upside-down over the bowl containing the soup. As you slowly lower it, you try to line up the brims so when they rest together they form a nice even seal. Unfortunately, given the soup is hot, you dont quite get the brims to line up perfectly, and the edge of the top bowl ends up resting just slightly to the left of the lip on the bottom bowl. The way these two bowls now rest unevenly atop one another is exactly what you would see in a person with a crossbite.
A crossbite can affect several teeth, or a single tooth, and can occur on either one side of the mouth or both. Simply put, if any one tooth, or several teeth, lay nearer the tongue or cheek instead of coming together evenly, youre likely dealing with a crossbite.
The dental community is split on when to initiate treatment for a crossbite, with some suggesting treatment should begin as soon as it is noticed (sometimes as early as age three), while others suggest parents should wait until a childs sixth year molars have arrived. Despite the difference of opinion as to when treatment should begin, dentists and orthodontist are in agreement that the condition cannot be left untreated. Doing so presents a host of complications for the child later in life including gum and tooth wear, uneven jaw development that can lead to temporomandibular joint disorder, and facial asymmetry something no parent or child wants.
Crossbite treatment generally involves adjusting the spread of a childs teeth with dental appliances so the bite pattern matches evenly on all sides. Depending on the type of crossbite a child has, this can be done with dental expanders which resemble orthodontic retainers, and include a screw that is tightened nightly so as to spread a childs bite to the prescribed width. Additionally, dental facemasks, braces and clear aligners may be used particularly when single teeth are out of alignment.
Crossbites are generally regarded as genetic in nature, so theyre not overly common. It is, however, a condition that needs to be treated before permanent damage to a childs facial and oral development occurs, so if you find yourself at the other end of a discussion about having your little one wear a dental expander, be sure you listen and get however many opinions regarding that advice as you require. Your child, and your wallet will thank you long into the future.
Reviews
Rating 4.8 out of 5 based on 102 reviews
Sort by
newest oldest highest lowestPhilip Krick Jr
a year ago
Great experience! Professional work and friendly team.
Tasha
a year ago
Just always an amazing visit! Dr Eskarose is the best! She make you feel welcomed! And comfortable, she is so professional! And friendly and her whole place is Clean! The secretary is very Friendly with a great smile and nice white teeth! I'd recommend anyone to come!
Michael H
a year ago
Best dentist ever I recommend for everyone with teeth
Robert O'Shaughnessy
a year ago
Great job. Reservation was right on time. Great job on my cleaning
Michael Spellman
a year ago
Dr. Eskarose is awesome. I had minor issues today with two teeth post a cleaning. She was able to squeeze a repair in and is very professional and kind. She has a very dry sense of humor and just great to interact with.
Beckey Stegeman
a year ago
I love going to the dentist with Dr. Eskarose. She is so fast and professional. So lucky to find her
Wdra Drakos
a year ago
I almost enjoy going to the dentist. The best
Katelyn Harrell
a year ago
She is by far the BEST and most professional dentist I have ever been too. Also, Amy her receptionist is such a peach. I would highly recommend anyone to go see her.
Marjorie Mallory
a year ago
Dr. Eskarose and staff are wonderful. Highly professional and kind in dental treatment and in developing a care plan as needed. The practice is very helpful with insurance and in explaining costs prior to service.
Linda Burdick
a year ago
Dr. Eskarose is an exceptional dentist. She makes patients as comfortable as possible. She keeps up with the latest advances in equipment that make dental work easier for the patient.
Subaru Wizzard
a year ago
Very professional and polite. Dr Skarose addressed my concern, and advice me on my next step without pressuring me. Thanks
Debbie Fantacci
2 years ago
Dr. Eskarouse is a class act. I would highly recommend her. She is very patient and more than helpful with all my needs. Thank you very much. Debra
Rick Silva
2 years ago
I had broken a tooth over the weekend which was severely irritating my tongue. I called Monday around noon. She said come right in and we'll take a look. She fixed the tooth right away. It feels great. I highly recommend her for any dental work . She also does our cleaning too. Prices are very reasonable.
taimon Hanna
2 years ago
Dr. Madlene is one of the best dentists I have ever encountered. Very welcoming and backed with great consistent work. She has been me and my family's dentist for many years and more to come. I would wholeheartedly recommend everyone to visit her practice in mystic.Go east, go west, Dr. Madlene Eskarose is the best!
Heather Klein
2 years ago
I'm someone who gets anxiety going to the dentist and the atmosphere and lighting here is so soothing. It doesn't "feel" like a dental office. It's super clean and decorated nicely. The staff is super friendly and knowledgeable. I had a hard time finding a dentist that I liked, once I moved to this area, but this is the one! I will definitely be back.
Beth Lombardi
2 years ago
Pleasantly surprised! I have anxiety issues and don't do well with dental appointments in general. Dr Eskarose was professional calming and reasuing and very thorough. I will be back again and definitely recommend Dr Eskarose.
Jeanne DeLarm-Neri
2 years ago
Dr. Eskarose is a rare dentist in this world. Her skill combines with her genuine care of her patients.
Guy C
2 years ago
Fast friendly service
Abraham Florez
2 years ago
Initial visit for routine hygiene and to get a broken tooth looked at. The office staff are professional, helpful, and friendly. The reception/waiting area is clean, orderly, and comfortable. The dental staff are efficient, friendly, and polite. Dr. Eskrose is very professional and efficient yet still finds time to be warm and friendly. The recommended treatments and insurance concerns & options were thoroughly explained. Highly recommend.
psweene01
2 years ago
I have the been to the doctor on two occasions and I can honestly say the best dentist I have ever been to. The office is friendly and extremely accomodating.
Load more