Can Aligners Fix a Crossbite?

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Can Clear Aligners Fix a Crossbite? Yes—In Many Cases

A crossbite occurs when one or more upper teeth sit behind the lower teeth when biting down. It can happen with front teeth, back teeth, or both—and it can affect one side of the mouth or both sides. While it may not always be painful, a crossbite can cause:

• Uneven wear on your teeth

• Jaw tension or TMJ discomfort

• Difficulty maintaining oral hygiene

• Cosmetic concerns with your smile

The good news? Clear aligners like Invisalign can effectively treat many crossbite cases, especially when the issue lies in the position of the teeth rather than the jawbone. Let’s explore how aligners work to fix a crossbite, and when other treatments might be necessary.

What Is a Crossbite?

A crossbite refers to a misalignment of the upper and lower dental arches. In a proper bite, your upper teeth should sit slightly outside your lower teeth. In a crossbite, that relationship is reversed in some areas. There are two main types:

🔹 Anterior Crossbite

Affects the front teeth—often mistaken for an underbite.

🔹 Posterior Crossbite

Affects the back teeth—typically more common and noticeable during chewing.

How Aligners Can Fix a Crossbite

Clear aligners work by applying controlled, gradual pressure to shift the position of individual teeth. When treating a crossbite, this might include:

• Expanding the upper arch

• Moving one or more teeth outward (buccal movement)

• Shifting lower teeth inward

• Aligning teeth vertically for proper contact

This is possible through:

• 3D digital planning to map out tooth movement

• Custom-designed trays that adjust slightly with each set

• Attachments and elastics, if needed for extra force or grip

When followed precisely (20–22 hours per day), clear aligners can correct mild to moderate crossbites without the need for braces.

When Aligners Alone Aren’t Enough

For more complex cases—especially if the crossbite is caused by skeletal discrepancies in the jaw structure—aligners may need to be part of a combination treatment plan. This might include:

• Elastics combined with aligners

• Jaw expanders (especially for growing children)

• Tooth extractions to create space

• Orthognathic surgery in severe adult skeletal cases

Dr. Bak will determine if your crossbite is dental (tooth-based) or skeletal through a detailed digital scan and bite assessment.

Why It’s Important to Treat a Crossbite

Even if your crossbite isn’t painful now, leaving it untreated can lead to:

• Difficulty chewing evenly

• Jaw strain or TMJ pain

• Asymmetrical facial development (especially in kids)

• Tooth wear, cracks, or gum recession

• Lowered confidence in your smile

Aligning your bite helps protect your teeth, improve your oral function, and enhance your overall appearance.

Dr. Bak’s Approach: Personalized Digital Solutions

With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Bak Nguyen uses advanced digital tools to plan and track clear aligner treatments for bite issues like crossbite. Every treatment is custom-tailored to the patient’s anatomy and long-term goals—ensuring a balanced bite and a confident smile.

Book a free virtual consultation to learn more about your case, its treatment time and cost with Dr Bak Nguyen (the real one).

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