What Is Crossbite? Understanding Anterior and Posterior Crossbite
Crossbite is a condition in which the upper teeth do not close in an ideal position over the lower teeth. Instead of sitting slightly outside, the upper teeth bite inward or behind the lower teeth.
Clinically, crossbite is divided into two main types:
Anterior Crossbite
Anterior crossbite occurs when one or more upper front teeth are positioned behind the lower front teeth. This condition is relatively easy to identify, as the front teeth appear “reversed,” making the smile look less balanced.
Beyond aesthetics, anterior crossbite can interfere with proper biting function and accelerate tooth wear.
Posterior Crossbite
Posterior crossbite involves the back teeth or molars. In this condition, the upper teeth bite toward the inside of the cheeks rather than sitting on the outside as they should. Because it occurs at the back of the mouth, posterior crossbite often goes unnoticed, yet it is the type most commonly associated with jaw imbalance and altered chewing patterns.
Both anterior and posterior crossbite are classified as malocclusions and require orthodontic evaluation, such as braces or Invisalign, to prevent long-term jaw function issues.
The Domino Effect of Crossbite: From Tooth Wear to Jaw Joint Disorders
The longer crossbite is left untreated, the greater the risk of functional jaw problems—and the more complex treatment may become.
Common consequences include:
Tooth wear (abrasion) due to uneven chewing pressure and abnormal tooth contact
Jaw muscle pain or fatigue, especially when chewing hard foods or for prolonged periods
Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw joint when opening or closing the mouth, indicating temporomandibular joint (TMJ) involvement
Recurring headaches caused by chronic tension in the jaw muscles and joints
Increased risk of long-term TMJ disorders, including limited jaw movement and chronic pain
Gum recession, particularly in teeth exposed to excessive pressure, which may lead to tooth sensitivity
The Relationship Between Crossbite and Facial Asymmetry
Many patients are surprised to learn that crossbite can affect facial shape. When the right and left sides of the jaw function unevenly, the body naturally adapts by shifting the bite toward one side.
Over time, this can lead to:
A face that appears tilted to one side
Differences in jaw height between the right and left sides
An imbalanced facial profile
Cheek muscles on one side appearing more prominent or slimmer
These changes occur gradually and are often only noticed after several years.
Treatment Options: Conventional Braces or Invisalign?
Crossbite can be corrected through two main orthodontic approaches: traditional braces or Invisalign. Both are effective, but the best option depends on the patient’s condition, severity of the case, and aesthetic preferences.
Braces
Advantages:
Ideal for moderate to severe cases
Precise control of tooth movement, especially for major shifts or rotations
Suitable for crossbite cases accompanied by crowding
Invisalign
Advantages:
Comfortable and nearly invisible
Removable for eating and brushing
Digital scanning allows accurate treatment planning and outcome prediction
Ideal for adults with active lifestyles
The most appropriate treatment method is determined through a comprehensive evaluation of the teeth, jaw structure, and aesthetic goals.
The Importance of Early Detection and Adult Treatment
Crossbite correction is not limited to children. Adults are also highly encouraged to undergo orthodontic treatment because it can:
Help stabilize jaw joint function
Prevent worsening TMJ disorders
Improve facial symmetry and smile aesthetics
Reduce the risk of tooth wear and gum problems
Enhance chewing comfort and self-confidence
With proper planning, orthodontic treatment in adulthood can still deliver optimal and stable results.
Conclusion
Crossbite is more than just a cosmetic dental concern. It can affect jaw joint health, chewing patterns, and overall facial balance. Both anterior and posterior crossbite require orthodontic evaluation to prevent long-term complications.
Through treatments such as braces or Invisalign, crossbite can be corrected safely and progressively. Early consultation with a dentist or orthodontic specialist is a crucial step toward restoring balanced bite function, jaw health, and refined facial aesthetics.
Reference
Brizuela, M., Palla, A., & N, D. K. (2022, October 24). Posterior crossbite. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing. Retrieved December 13, 2025, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/books/NBK499873/
Karaçor, G. (2024). Management of anterior dental crossbite with removable appliance. Dental Clinics of North America, 68. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.identj.2024.07.426
Sandeep, K. (2024). Exploring management techniques for crossbite correction: A case series demonstrating successful treatment strategies. Journal of Medical and Dental Science Research, 10(4), 68–75. Retrieved from https://www.questjournals.org/jmdsr/papers/vol10-issue4/10046874.pdf
