Crossbite
Conditions We Assess and Treat with 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 are worth assessing, as they may contribute to gum recession, tooth wear, jaw discomfort and bite instability over time.
At Pro Aligners, we can treat many mild to moderate crossbites using clear aligner systems, digitally planned and overseen by experienced clinicians. Our aligners are designed to gently guide teeth towards improved positioning, which may help improve bite function, support oral health and enhance the 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 may benefit from professional assessment.
Why Treat a Crossbite?
Crossbites are important to treat early because they can cause both functional and cosmetic issues over time.
Functional Benefits
- May improve chewing efficiency
- Can help balance the bite
- May help reduce the risk of jaw strain and TMJ discomfort
- May help distribute bite forces more evenly
Health & Aesthetic Benefits
- May help reduce the risk of gum recession
- May help protect enamel from premature wear
- Can help create a more symmetrical smile
- May enhance overall facial harmony
Crossbites may progress over time, so early assessment is recommended.
Can Clear Aligners Treat a Crossbite?
Yes — many dental crossbites can be effectively treated using clear aligners. While severe skeletal crossbites may require surgical intervention or expansion appliances, mild and moderate cases can respond well to aligner therapy.
Clear aligners can be a discreet and comfortable option for these cases.
How Pro Aligners Correct a Crossbite
Crossbite correction requires precise planning and controlled tooth movement. Our digital approach is designed to support predictable, safe and stable outcomes.
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.
Arch Coordination & Expansion
For many crossbite cases, aligners gently widen the upper arch or reposition the lower arch to restore proper bite alignment.
Individual Tooth Movement
Aligners aim to gradually guide affected teeth towards improved positioning.
Attachments for Precision
Small tooth-coloured attachments may be used to support rotational or tipping movements, essential for crossbite correction.
Bite Guidance
Aligners help guide the bite into a more functional, stabilised position as the teeth shift.
Unlimited Refinements Included
Crossbite cases often require fine-tuning. All Pro Aligners packages include unlimited refinements to help support improved bite alignment.
Retainers for Long-Term Stability
Following treatment, two complimentary retainers are provided to help maintain your improved alignment and support long-term stability.
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:
Start Your Smile Assessment
A crossbite can affect your oral health, bite function and confidence. With Pro Aligners, you may be able to achieve a more symmetrical bite and improved alignment using a discreet, comfortable and expertly guided system.
Find out if Pro Aligners can correct your crossbite.
Contact Us
We're here to help you achieve your perfect smile. Reach out to us today.
Call Us
020 3137 5212Email Us
info@proaligners.co.ukVisit Our Clinic
20 Old Brompton Road
South Kensington, London
SW7 3DL
- 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)
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.
