What Causes Crossbite in Children?

If you’ve noticed your child’s smile looking a little “off” – maybe some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth instead of outside – you may be looking at a crossbite. This common children’s orthodontic concern can affect chewing, speech, jaw growth, and long-term dental health.

At ABQ Orthodontics, we often meet Albuquerque parents who didn’t realize their child had a crossbite until a dentist or hygienist pointed it out. The good news? With early attention, most crossbites can be corrected comfortably, often before they cause permanent changes to jaw growth or tooth alignment.

This guide explains the causes of crossbite in children, the types of crossbite, and the most effective options for the treatment of crossbite in children.

What is a Crossbite?

A crossbite happens when one or more upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth instead of overlapping them normally. This can affect front teeth, back teeth, or both. Over time, a crossbite can lead to uneven wear, jaw discomfort, and even facial asymmetry.

In children, a crossbite may develop during jaw growth or as permanent teeth start to come in. Without timely care, the condition can worsen, making treatment more complex later in life.

Types of Crossbite

Orthodontists classify crossbite types into two main categories:

1. Anterior Crossbite

An anterior crossbite affects the front teeth. When your child closes their mouth, one or more upper front teeth sit behind the lower front teeth. This is sometimes mistaken for an underbite but can involve just a few teeth instead of the whole jaw.

• Common causes: Jaw growth discrepancies, crowding, or tooth eruption in the wrong position.
• Why it matters: It can cause excessive wear on front teeth, speech issues, and jaw strain.
• Treatment: Early anterior crossbite treatment in a child often involves minor orthodontic appliances or braces.

2. Posterior Crossbite

A posterior crossbite affects the back teeth. One or more upper back teeth bite inside the lower back teeth.

• Common causes: Narrow upper jaw, thumb-sucking, mouth breathing, or prolonged pacifier use.
• Why it matters: May cause one-sided chewing, jaw shifting, and uneven facial growth.

Other Crossbite Types You Might Hear About

Some orthodontists also describe unilateral crossbites (affecting one side) or bilateral crossbites (affecting both sides). Both can appear as anterior or posterior forms. Understanding the types of crossbites helps in choosing the right treatment of anterior crossbite in children or other targeted approaches.

Causes of Crossbite in Children

Crossbite teeth don’t happen overnight. Several factors may be at play:

• Genetics: Jaw size, shape, and tooth alignment can run in families.
• Thumb-sucking or prolonged pacifier use: Can push teeth inward or narrow the upper jaw.
• Mouth breathing: Often linked to nasal obstruction, this can affect jaw development and encourage a crossbite pattern.
• Early or late loss of baby teeth: Can cause shifting or crowding of permanent teeth.
• Delayed eruption or extra teeth: May block the natural path of incoming teeth.

Signs to Watch For

Parents can often spot a developing crossbite early. Look for:

• Teeth that don’t line up evenly when the mouth is closed.
• Mainly chewing on one side.
• Jaw shifting occurs when closing the mouth.
• Uneven wear or chipping of teeth.
• Speech changes (especially with “s” or “th” sounds).

If you notice these signs, an orthodontic evaluation can confirm whether treatment of crossbite in children is needed.

Why Early Treatment Matters

Correcting a crossbite in childhood often takes less time and effort than in adolescence or adulthood. The jawbones are still developing, so orthodontists can guide growth to create proper alignment.

Early treatment of anterior crossbite in children can:

• Prevent uneven jaw growth.
• Protect enamel from premature wear.
• Improve chewing efficiency and comfort.
• Support clear speech development.
• Reduce the need for more complex orthodontics later.

Treatment Options for Albuquerque Residents 

The proper treatment of crossbite in children depends on the child’s age, growth stage, and the type/severity of the crossbite. Common options include:

Palatal Expanders

Used mostly for posterior crossbites, a palatal expander gently widens the upper jaw to create proper bite alignment.

Braces or Clear Aligners

Can shift crossbite teeth into the proper position, either alone or after expansion.

Minor Restorative Adjustments

In mild cases, reshaping tooth surfaces can help correct alignment.

Habit Correction

Eliminating thumb-sucking or improving nasal breathing can help prevent relapse after treatment.

Anterior Crossbite Treatment in Children

For anterior forms, small orthodontic appliances (like a removable spring retainer) can guide front teeth forward into their correct position.

Treatment of Anterior Crossbite in Children – Special Considerations

Timing is crucial when treating an anterior crossbite in young patients. If caught early – ideally before the permanent teeth fully erupt – correction may take only a few months. Waiting too long can lead to jaw growth discrepancies that require more intensive orthodontics or even jaw surgery in extreme cases.

Dentist in Albuquerque: Your Local Partner for Crossbite Treatment 

Every child’s smile is unique, and so is their crossbite treatment plan. Whether your child needs treatment for crossbite or specialized treatment of anterior crossbite in children, the key is starting with a trusted orthodontic team.

At ABQ Orthodontics, we’ve helped many Albuquerque families address crossbites early, ensuring healthy jaw growth and confident smiles. If you’ve noticed signs of a crossbite, now’s the time to schedule a consultation. Call us today to book your child’s appointment and take the first step toward a balanced, healthy smile.

FAQs

Q. Can Kids Outgrow a Crossbite?

A: If untreated, crossbites in older teens and adults may require jaw surgery. In children, they can cause enamel wear, speech issues, and chewing difficulties.

Q. How To Fix Crossbite in Kids?

A: A crossbite – when upper teeth bite inside lower teeth – can often be fixed in children with early orthodontic treatment, such as expanders, braces, or, rarely, surgery.

Q. What Age to Fix a Crossbite?

A: Braces alone often can’t fix a crossbite – most kids need a palate expander first to widen the jaw. Starting early, around age 7 or 8, works best.