Condition Focus

Crossbite

Conditions We Treat with Premium Invisible Aligners

A crossbite is a type of bite misalignment where one or more upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth, rather than sitting slightly outside as they should. Crossbites can affect a single tooth or multiple teeth, and may involve the front teeth (anterior crossbite), the back teeth (posterior crossbite), or a combination of both. Although common, crossbites should never be ignored — they can lead to gum recession, tooth wear, jaw discomfort and long-term bite instability if left untreated.

At Pro Aligners, we successfully treat mild to moderate crossbites using advanced clear aligner systems, digitally planned and overseen by experienced clinicians. Our aligners gently and precisely guide teeth into the correct position, improving bite function, protecting oral health and enhancing the overall appearance of your smile.

What Causes a Crossbite?

Crossbites can form early in childhood or develop later in life due to changes in tooth position or jaw alignment.

1. Genetics

Jaw size and tooth alignment are often inherited. A naturally narrow upper jaw or wider lower jaw frequently results in a crossbite.

2. Abnormal Tooth Eruption

If baby or adult teeth erupt at incorrect angles, they may sit inside the lower teeth rather than outside.

3. Delayed Loss of Baby Teeth

When baby teeth do not fall out on time, they can block proper eruption of the adult teeth, causing misalignment.

4. Thumb Sucking or Prolonged Dummy Use

Childhood habits can alter jaw development and tooth position, contributing to crossbite formation.

5. Mouth Breathing

Chronic mouth breathing can influence palate development and lead to a narrow upper jaw.

6. Missing Teeth

Gaps from missing teeth can cause the arch to collapse inward, increasing the risk of a crossbite.

7. Natural Shifting of Teeth

As teeth shift with age, the upper arch may narrow or lower teeth may drift outward, creating a new crossbite in adulthood.

Common Symptoms

A crossbite can cause symptoms that go beyond appearance. Patients often experience:

  • Upper teeth biting inside lower teeth
  • Uneven or excessive tooth wear
  • Gum recession on affected teeth
  • Bite imbalance or chewing difficulty
  • Clicking or discomfort in the jaw
  • Asymmetry in the smile or facial structure
  • Teeth that feel “out of place” or misaligned

Even a single tooth in crossbite can create long-term complications if not corrected.

Why Treat a Crossbite?

Crossbites are important to treat early because they can cause both functional and cosmetic issues over time.

Functional Benefits

  • Improves chewing efficiency
  • Balances the bite
  • Reduces risk of jaw strain and TMJ problems
  • Prevents uneven loading on teeth

Health & Aesthetic Benefits

  • Prevents gum recession behind affected teeth
  • Protects enamel from premature wear
  • Creates a more symmetrical smile
  • Enhances overall facial harmony

Left untreated, crossbites often worsen and can cause irreversible damage.

Can Clear Aligners Fix a Crossbite?

Yes — many dental crossbites can be successfully corrected using clear aligners. While severe skeletal crossbites may require surgical intervention or expansion appliances, mild and moderate cases respond exceptionally well to aligner therapy.

Anterior crossbite
Posterior crossbite
Unilateral crossbite
Bilateral crossbite
Tooth angulation issues
Relapse after braces

Clear aligners are discreet, comfortable and highly effective for these cases.

How Pro Aligners Correct a Crossbite

Crossbite correction requires precise planning and controlled tooth movement. Our advanced digital approach ensures predictable, safe and stable results.

1

3D Digital Assessment

Your treatment begins with a high-resolution 3D scan to capture your bite in full detail. We analyse which teeth sit in crossbite, how the arch width compares, and the level of corrective movement required.

2

Arch Coordination & Expansion

For many crossbite cases, aligners gently widen the upper arch or reposition the lower arch to restore proper bite alignment.

3

Individual Tooth Movement

Aligners gradually move affected teeth outward or inward until the bite fits together correctly.

4

Attachments for Precision

Small tooth-coloured attachments may be used to support rotational or tipping movements, essential for crossbite correction.

5

Bite Guidance

Aligners help guide the bite into a more functional, stabilised position as the teeth shift.

6

Unlimited Refinements Included

Crossbite cases often require fine-tuning. All Pro Aligners packages include unlimited refinements to ensure the bite is corrected with accuracy and care.

7

Retainers for Long-Term Stability

Once the crossbite is corrected, you will receive two free retainers to maintain your new alignment and prevent relapse.

Who Is Suitable for Crossbite Treatment?

You may be suitable for aligner treatment if you have:

  • One or more upper teeth biting inside lower teeth
  • Bite asymmetry affecting one or both sides
  • Difficulty chewing or uneven bite pressure
  • Gum recession behind affected teeth
  • Newly developed crossbite due to shifting
  • Relapse of a previous crossbite after braces

How Long Does Crossbite Treatment Take?

Treatment time varies based on severity, but most crossbite cases require:

8 to 18 months

Milder cases may be completed faster.

Benefits of Treating Crossbite with Pro Aligners

Discreet Aligners

Nearly invisible treatment

Comfortable

Removable for eating & cleaning

Digitally Planned

Precise tooth movement

Unlimited Refinements

Included for accuracy

Complimentary Extras Included:

Two Free Retainers Free Teeth Whitening Gel 0% Finance Available

Start Your Smile Transformation Today

A crossbite can affect your oral health, bite function and confidence — but correcting it has never been easier. With Pro Aligners, you can achieve a more symmetrical bite and a beautifully aligned smile using a discreet, comfortable and expertly guided system.

Find out if Pro Aligners can correct your crossbite.

Contact Us

Contact Us

We're here to help you achieve your perfect smile. Reach out to us today.

Visit Our Clinic

20 Old Brompton Road
South Kensington, London
SW7 3DL

Opening Hours
  • Monday9am - 6pm
  • Tuesday9am - 8pm
  • Wednesday9am - 6pm
  • Thursday9am - 8pm
  • Friday8am - 5pm
  • Saturday10am - 4pm
  • SundayClosed

How to find us

We are conveniently located in the heart of South Kensington, just a short walk from the station. Our clinic is easily accessible via public transport from all parts of London.

Nearest Tube Station

South Kensington (1 min walk)

DistrictCirclePiccadilly

Bus Routes

Stops nearby: 14, 49, 70, 74, 345, 360, 414, 430, C1

Parking

Pay & Display parking is available on Old Brompton Road. Nearest car park: Harrington Road Car Park (5 min walk).

Regulated & Registered

ProAligners is proudly part of Medical and Dental Ltd. registered with the UK's leading healthcare regulatory bodies, ensuring the highest standards of care, safety, and professionalism.