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.
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Rating 4.9 out of 5 based on 208 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestKim Fast
a year ago
Thorough, highly knowledgeable, kind and friendly -- this team is the BEST!
Marty Thorne
a year ago
Best dentist and staff I've had in my 66 years. Thank you Dr. B.
Sandy White
a year ago
I recently had an appointment for a cleaning at Dr.Bozorgnia's dental office, most people do not like going to the dentist, but I always look forward to seeing all the staff and Dr B. They are all so friendly and always professional. It is always a pleasant visit. A great group. Sandi White. As always it was a great appointment.
David Zamboni
a year ago
Staff were patient friendly and helpful.
David Fuller
a year ago
A great checkup with Laurie and Dr. Bozorgnia!
Denise Kidder
2 years ago
Joan and Laurie are always professional and helpful. They make me feel at home. I always leave the office with a good feeling! I also have confidence that I received the absolute best care! Thanks!
Lance Lemieux
2 years ago
Good visit, took time to put together a plan to take care of my teeth during my cancer treatment. Thank you for caring.
Terri Jordan
2 years ago
So prompt, professional and such a caring atmosphere.
Roxanne Davis
2 years ago
Very nice people. Dr B. Is the best.
Joan Brann
2 years ago
Wonderful care and expert service!
lori thhibault
2 years ago
As always the staff and Dr.B continue to be efficient and very kind. Their work is excellent.
John Bogar
2 years ago
Excellent service and comfortable atmosphere!!!
Jane Thorndike
2 years ago
Great crew! Caring and fun! Highly recommend!!
DEBORAH CAYER
2 years ago
Safe, efficient dental care
Annaset Jackson
2 years ago
I had a great experience at Dr. Bozorgnia's dental office! The staff was extremely friendly and answered all my questions thoroughly. This will continue to be my choice of a dentist office for a long time!
Darlene Tyler
2 years ago
Always a pleasant experience.
Mindy Bukoveckas
2 years ago
Everyone is so friendly and nice. You can feel that they care.
David Zamboni
2 years ago
A good visit all in all aspects. Makes me want go back again soon.
Lois Hamel
2 years ago
Very very friendly...not rushed, but efficient. My brother (and his kids) referred us there ten years ago and our family has been happy there.
Marty Thorne
2 years ago
Best dentist and staff I've had in my 66 years. Thank you Dr. B
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