What is a Crossbite?
A crossbite is an orthodontic condition in which one or more upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth instead of slightly outside them. It can affect the front teeth, back teeth, or both. Without treatment, a crossbite may contribute to uneven tooth wear, jaw discomfort, bite imbalance, and uneven jaw development in growing children, which is why early evaluation is important.
Common concerns:
- Uneven tooth wear
- Jaw discomfort
- Bite imbalance
- Difficulty chewing
- Jaw shifting
- Uneven jaw growth in children
- Gum recession
- Smile asymmetry
Our Approach
Every crossbite is different—it may involve tooth position, jaw width, jaw growth, or a combination of factors. With more than 45 years of experience treating complex bite problems, Dr. Kendrick begins with a detailed evaluation and creates a personalized plan to improve bite function and support long-term oral health.
Treatment options may include:
The Benefits
Correcting a crossbite does more than improve the appearance of your smile. Proper alignment helps the teeth come together more evenly, which can make chewing more comfortable, reduce uneven wear, and support healthier jaw function and long-term oral health. Dr. Kendrick personalizes treatment based on the cause and severity of each crossbite.
- Improved bite function
- Better chewing comfort
- Reduced uneven tooth wear
- Enhanced smile balance
Treatment Process
Your treatment begins with a free consultation at our Kissimmee office. Dr. Kendrick will evaluate how your teeth and jaws fit together, identify the cause of the crossbite, and recommend a personalized treatment plan. During treatment, he will monitor your progress and guide your bite into healthier alignment. Retainers help maintain your results after correction.
Crossbite FAQs
Common questions about crossbite causes, treatment options, and crossbite correction in Kissimmee, FL.
A crossbite may develop from genetics, differences in jaw width or growth, delayed tooth eruption, prolonged thumb sucking, or crowded teeth. A detailed orthodontic evaluation helps identify the underlying cause.
A crossbite should be evaluated as soon as it becomes noticeable. In growing children, an untreated crossbite can cause the jaw to shift and develop unevenly, so early treatment may guide jaw growth and prevent more complex problems later.
Many crossbites can be treated without surgery, especially when identified early. Braces, clear aligners, and palatal expansion can often correct a crossbite. Dr. Kendrick recommends the best approach after a full evaluation.
Yes. Adults may be treated with braces, clear aligners, expansion appliances, or a combination of approaches. With more than 45 years of experience, Dr. Kendrick develops a personalized plan based on the cause and severity of the crossbite.
An anterior crossbite affects the front teeth, while a posterior crossbite affects the back teeth on one or both sides. Each type places different stress on the bite, and Dr. Kendrick tailors treatment to the specific pattern of your crossbite.
An untreated crossbite may contribute to uneven tooth wear, gum recession, jaw strain, and asymmetric jaw growth in children. Early evaluation helps protect long-term oral health.
Treatment time depends on the cause, severity, and the recommended approach. Dr. Kendrick provides a personalized timeline after completing a full evaluation.
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