A crossbite is more than a cosmetic concern. It affects how your teeth come together, how your jaw functions, and, over time, it can impact overall oral health. Many patients assume braces alone will correct any bite issue, but in certain cases, especially when the problem involves jaw alignment, additional treatment such as jaw surgery may be necessary.
Understanding when a crossbite can be treated with orthodontics alone and when surgical support is needed can help patients make informed decisions about their care.
What Is a Crossbite?
A crossbite occurs when the upper and lower teeth do not align properly when the mouth is closed. Instead of the upper teeth sitting slightly outside the lower teeth, some teeth may sit inside or behind.
There are two main types:
- Dental crossbite: Caused by misaligned teeth
- Skeletal crossbite: Caused by differences in jaw size or position
The distinction matters because it directly affects how the condition is treated.
Why Crossbite Should Not Be Ignored
Crossbite issues can worsen over time if left untreated. They are not just about alignment but also about function and long-term health.
Common concerns include:
- Uneven wear on teeth
- Gum recession in affected areas
- Jaw discomfort or strain
- Difficulty chewing properly
- Shifting of the jaw over time
For growing patients, early orthodontic care can often guide proper development. For adults, treatment may be more complex depending on how the jaw has developed.
When Braces Are Enough
In cases where the crossbite is primarily dental, braces or clear aligners may be sufficient to reposition the teeth.
Orthodontic treatment can:
- Move teeth into proper alignment
- Improve bite function
- Prevent further wear or damage
These cases typically do not involve structural jaw issues, which means surgery is not required.
When Jaw Surgery Becomes Necessary
When a crossbite is caused by skeletal differences, meaning the upper and lower jaws are not properly aligned, orthodontic treatment alone may not fully correct the problem.
Jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, may be recommended when:
- The jaw is significantly misaligned
- Bite issues cannot be corrected with tooth movement alone
- There are functional concerns, such as difficulty chewing or speaking
- Facial balance is affected by jaw position
In these situations, braces are still part of the process, but they are used in combination with surgery to achieve a stable and functional result.
How Orthodontics and Jaw Surgery Work Together
Treatment involving jaw surgery is carefully planned and coordinated.
It typically includes:
- Pre-surgical orthodontics to align the teeth
- Jaw surgery to reposition the jaw correctly
- Post-surgical orthodontics to fine-tune the bite
This combined approach ensures that both the teeth and the jaw are properly aligned for long-term function and stability.
For patients in Asheville and surrounding communities, access to coordinated orthodontic and surgical care can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
At TS Orthodontics, care is designed to address both straightforward and more complex bite concerns. Our team works with patients to evaluate whether a crossbite can be corrected with orthodontics alone or if surgical support is needed as part of the treatment plan.
With a focus on comprehensive orthodontic care, patients receive guidance throughout the process, from initial evaluation to final results, ensuring that both function and alignment are addressed appropriately.
When to Consider an Evaluation
If you or your child has a crossbite, an evaluation can help determine the severity and the most appropriate treatment approach.
You should consider scheduling a consultation if you notice:
- Teeth that do not align properly when biting
- Jaw shifting when opening or closing
- Difficulty chewing evenly
- Ongoing jaw discomfort
- Changes in facial symmetry
Early evaluation provides more options, especially for younger patients, while adults benefit from a clear understanding of all available treatment paths.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are in Asheville or nearby communities and have concerns about a crossbite, getting an early evaluation can help you understand the full range of treatment options available.
Schedule a consultation with TS Orthodontics to have your bite assessed and discuss the most appropriate treatment approach for your needs. In addition to our Asheville location, we have three more offices in North Asheville, Rutherfordton, and Marion, making care accessible across the region.
For added convenience, virtual consultations are available, or you can call our office directly to speak with our team and get started.
Asheville Office Phone: 828-270-7638
North Asheville Office Phone: 828-248-0582
Marion Office Phone: 828-408-0458
Rutherfordton Office Phone: 828-276-8479
Final Thoughts
Crossbite is a condition that can range from mild to complex. While many cases can be corrected with braces alone, others require a more comprehensive approach that includes jaw surgery. The key is proper diagnosis and a treatment plan that addresses both the teeth and the underlying jaw structure when needed.