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 4.9 out of 5 based on 16 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestJoyce Dunlap
2 years ago
I had a tooth crack and several pieces fall off. After several x-rays to check the condition of the tooth, Dr Rader suggested a crown rather than pulling the tooth which would have required an implant. Jodie took great care to fit the temporary crown and I'm pleased with the friendliness of the whole office.
kay
2 years ago
Very professional you won't be disappointed if you make an appointment.
Tom McCloud
3 years ago
Today, 10/21/20 - I received 5 forms in email yesterday, to be filled out for my appointment today at 9:30am. The forms were clear and easy to understand. The format made completion and submission simple. I arrived at 9:25 and was being examined at 9:30 as per my appointment. Hilda took an xray of my problem area. She is knowledgeable, professional and friendly. Dr. Rader analyzed my problem, clearly explained my options and best of all didn't try to push a solution I don't need. BEST DENTAL EXPERIENCE IN MY LIFETIME. (71 years old)
kay
3 years ago
Very professional you won't be disappointed if you make an appointment.
Eugene Kincaid
3 years ago
Although I was not a regular patient, I had an appointment with Dr. Rader the next day. He assessed the situation and did a root canal that day. The dental assistants and office personnel were terrific. Also, as this was during the Covid 19 pandemic, there was a person wiping down the waiting room surfaces immediately after any person either went in for treatment or left the building. My wife witnessed this as she waited for me. We could not be more pleased with the experience.
Geri Trautman Naylor
3 years ago
I have been using this practice for almost 20 years along with my whole family. I am always greeted by name. The front office is warm and friendly. The staff is knowledgeable and efficient. I always have a great experience here and they are always willing to accomodate my needs
Tom McCloud
3 years ago
Today, 10/21/20 - I received 5 forms in email yesterday, to be filled out for my appointment today at 9:30am. The forms were clear and easy to understand. The format made completion and submission simple. I arrived at 9:25 and was being examined at 9:30 as per my appointment. Hilda took an xray of my problem area. She is knowledgeable, professional and friendly. Dr. Rader analyzed my problem, clearly explained my options and best of all didn't try to push a solution I don't need. BEST DENTAL EXPERIENCE IN MY LIFETIME. (71 years old)
Linda Sander
3 years ago
I always feel comfortable during my visits. Dr Radar is great and Montse is very patient with me and my fears. Very clean office with pleasant atmosphere.
Brenda Feick
3 years ago
Always an awesome experience! I recently went during covid19 and was concerned for obvious reasons. Well there was no need to worry, my hygienist Jose went above and beyond to make me feel safe and comfortable. I would highly recommend for all your dental needs. I waited years to get my veneers and Dr. Lascheid made my smile everything I'd hoped for! I just wish I'd have done it years ago. I've been a patient for at least 15 years, maybe more. Highly recommend!
Eugene Kincaid
4 years ago
Although I was not a regular patient, I had an appointment with Dr. Rader the next day. He assessed the situation and did a root canal that day. The dental assistants and office personnel were terrific. Also, as this was during the Covid 19 pandemic, there was a person wiping down the waiting room surfaces immediately after any person either went in for treatment or left the building. My wife witnessed this as she waited for me. We could not be more pleased with the experience.
Geri Trautman Naylor
4 years ago
I have been using this practice for almost 20 years along with my whole family. I am always greeted by name. The front office is warm and friendly. The staff is knowledgeable and efficient. I always have a great experience here and they are always willing to accomodate my needs
Linda Sander
4 years ago
I always feel comfortable during my visits. Dr Radar is great and Montse is very patient with me and my fears. Very clean office with pleasant atmosphere.
Brenda Feick
4 years ago
Always an awesome experience! I recently went during covid19 and was concerned for obvious reasons. Well there was no need to worry, my hygienist Jose went above and beyond to make me feel safe and comfortable. I would highly recommend for all your dental needs. I waited years to get my veneers and Dr. Lascheid made my smile everything I'd hoped for! I just wish I'd have done it years ago. I've been a patient for at least 15 years, maybe more. Highly recommend!
William Grussing
4 years ago
make sure to get the cost of any work done up front, especially if you have insurance. this is the second time i've heard my insurance doesn't cover that or that's not preventative care, etc etc conveniently after the procedure...that being said, the service and professionalism of the Dr.'s and Staff is exemplary....
William Grussing
5 years ago
make sure to get the cost of any work done up front, especially if you have insurance. this is the second time i've heard my insurance doesn't cover that or that's not preventative care, etc etc conveniently after the procedure...that being said, the service and professionalism of the Dr.'s and Staff is exemplary....
Kimberly Vitols
5 years ago
If I could give more than 5 stars, I would. I've been to A LOT of dentists in my life. But, the Lascheid Dentistry is, hands down, the best one I've ever been to. Everyone is very nice and welcoming, caring, funny and they treat you like family. Both Doctor's are equally wonderful. They are no nonsense and will not try to sell you something that's not needed. They give you the options and support whatever you want to do. Thank you to everyone at the office! You guys and girls are the BEST!! I'm so lucky that I was referred to the Lascheid's.
Kimberly Vitols
6 years ago
If I could give more than 5 stars, I would. I've been to A LOT of dentists in my life. But, the Lascheid Dentistry is, hands down, the best one I've ever been to. Everyone is very nice and welcoming, caring, funny and they treat you like family. Both Doctor's are equally wonderful. They are no nonsense and will not try to sell you something that's not needed. They give you the options and support whatever you want to do. Thank you to everyone at the office! You guys and girls are the BEST!! I'm so lucky that I was referred to the Lascheid's.
christopher taylor
6 years ago
After almost 17 years of regular cleaning visits to Dr. Lascheid's office, I finally needed a small procedure to replace a 30 year old filling and a chip in one of my back teeth. This is a testament to the wonderful care I have been getting from Montse, who is very thorough and has always communicated with me regarding the areas that she needs me to work better at. ie. flossing, etc. Dr. Lascheid and his assistant Jody performed the procedure and they were simply terrific. I barely noticed the pain killing shot because of the table side manner of both and the procedure was done perfectly and quickly. I have always been so impressed with their office because they are so professional and proficient and still maintain a very genuinely kind and warm demeanor.
All Florida Tinting Co.
6 years ago
Dr. Lascheid and staff are the best in South Florida. I've had all my dental work done in the last 7+ years from this office and always receive honest answers and phenomenal work, not to mention Dr. Lascheid is very compassionate. I gladly travel from Jupiter to Hobe Sound and wouldn't trust anyone else as I am very picky when it comes to someone working in my mouth
christopher taylor
7 years ago
After almost 17 years of regular cleaning visits to Dr. Lascheid's office, I finally needed a small procedure to replace a 30 year old filling and a chip in one of my back teeth. This is a testament to the wonderful care I have been getting from Montse, who is very thorough and has always communicated with me regarding the areas that she needs me to work better at. ie. flossing, etc. Dr. Lascheid and his assistant Jody performed the procedure and they were simply terrific. I barely noticed the pain killing shot because of the table side manner of both and the procedure was done perfectly and quickly. I have always been so impressed with their office because they are so professional and proficient and still maintain a very genuinely kind and warm demeanor.
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