Invisalign® and Crossbite Treatment in Petoskey, MI
Fix Your Crossbite With Invisalign®
Having a healthy, beautiful smile is something everyone desires. However, dental conditions such as crossbites can cause issues that affect both the functionality and appearance of your teeth. Crossbites can lead to problems, including difficulty biting and chewing, jaw pain, and dental erosion.
Fortunately, with Invisalign, our Petoskey, MI dentist, Dr. Brian Klym of Northwood Dental, can treat crossbites. To learn more, contact our dental office today by calling our Petoskey office at (231) 347-2188.
What Is a Crossbite?
A crossbite occurs when the upper and lower teeth don’t align properly. In a normal bite, the upper teeth sit slightly in front of the lower teeth. However, in a crossbite, the opposite occurs, and the lower teeth may be in front of the upper teeth. Crossbites can cause discomfort and difficulty chewing, and even lead to dental issues like tooth decay and gum disease.
Crossbites can occur due to a variety of factors, including:
- Genetics
- Thumb-sucking
- Prolonged pacifier use
- Misaligned teeth due to tooth loss or oral trauma to the mouth
Anterior Crossbite
An anterior crossbite occurs when the top front teeth sit behind the bottom front teeth. This is also sometimes referred to as a reverse overbite or underbite. This type of crossbite can cause uneven wear on the teeth, potential speech issues, and could affect the development and appearance of the front teeth and jaw.
Posterior Crossbite
A posterior crossbite occurs when one or more of the upper back teeth fall inside the lower back teeth when the mouth is closed. This can affect the way the jaw moves and can lead to jaw pain, uneven tooth wear, and other issues if left untreated.
How Can Invisalign Help Fix a Crossbite?
Invisalign is an effective treatment for a wide range of dental issues, including crossbites. Invisalign aligners are custom-made for your teeth and gradually shift them into the correct position over time. They’re also removable, making it easy to eat, brush, and floss without issues.
Invisalign treatment typically lasts around 12 to 18 months, depending on the severity of your crossbite. During this time, you’ll wear a series of clear aligners that will be changed every two weeks. You’ll also need to visit Dr. Klym regularly for check-ups to ensure your treatment is progressing as planned.
Invisalign is a great option for correcting crossbites because the aligners are virtually invisible. This means you can straighten your teeth without feeling self-conscious about wearing braces. Additionally, because the aligners are removable, you won’t have any food restrictions and can maintain your regular dental hygiene routine.
Benefits of Using Invisalign to Correct Crossbites
- Comfort: Invisalign aligners are custom-made from a smooth, BPA-free plastic, providing a comfortable fit with no sharp edges to irritate your mouth.
- Convenience: Since Invisalign aligners are removable, you can maintain your regular eating habits and oral hygiene routine without any hassles.
- Discretion: If you’re concerned about the aesthetic impact of orthodontic treatment, Invisalign’s nearly invisible aligners are a perfect solution.
- Predictable Results: With Invisalign’s digital planning, you’ll be able to see a preview of your final results before the treatment begins, giving you confidence in your decision and the process.
