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Our smiles are all unique, and so are the ways our teeth come together when we bite. One of the common bite patterns people can have is called a crossbite, where some of the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth instead of outside. It’s nothing unusual, and many people live with it without even realizing. The encouraging news is that with today’s modern orthodontic solutions like clear aligners, crossbites can often be corrected in a comfortable and discreet way, helping you enjoy both the health and confidence that come with a well-aligned smile. In this guide, we’ll explore:
A crossbite is a type of dental alignment where some of your upper teeth sit inside your lower teeth when you bite down, instead of the usual position on the outside. It is common and treatable. There are two main types of crossbite:
A crossbite can appear in different ways. Sometimes only in the front, sometimes only in the back, and sometimes a mix of both. The important thing to know is that it is a common variation in how teeth line up, and modern orthodontic options (like clear aligners) can help bring them into a healthier position.
Although the terms sound similar, a crossbite and an overbite describe two very different bite patterns.
Crossbite = horizontal issue (teeth cross inward or outward).
Overbite = vertical issue (front teeth overlap too much or too little).
Note: Because both conditions can sometimes appear together, a professional dental evaluation is the best way to know what’s really happening with your bite.
Read more: Overbite Explained: Causes, Symptoms & How to Fix It
Many people don’t realise they have a crossbite until a dentist points it out. Because the teeth may still look “mostly straight,” it can be easy to overlook. But there are a few clear signs and simple ways to check at home.
A crossbite isn’t only about appearance. It can sometimes affect how your jaw and teeth work, leading to:
Here’s a quick way to check for a crossbite:
This self-check is helpful, but not conclusive. Sometimes a crossbite can be subtle or only show up when you move your jaw in certain ways.
Dentists and orthodontists use digital scans, X-rays, and bite analysis to confirm whether a crossbite is present and whether it’s dental (teeth only) or skeletal (jaw position). This distinction is important, because it helps determine which treatment like clear aligners, braces, or other options will work best.
Note: Even if your bite feels comfortable, a professional check can catch early signs of uneven wear or jaw strain before they turn into bigger issues.
Crossbites don’t just “appear out of nowhere.” They usually develop over time due to a mix of genetics, growth patterns, and habits during childhood. Below are the most common reasons:
Sometimes crossbites simply run in families. If one parent has a narrow upper jaw or a mismatch in jaw size, their children may be more likely to develop a similar bite pattern. Genetics often play a role in the overall shape and alignment of the jaws and teeth, which sets the foundation for how teeth come together.
How we breathe and position our tongue can influence jaw and dental development.
When baby teeth fall out too early or when adult teeth erupt in an irregular order, it can affect how the bite develops. If one tooth comes in misaligned, nearby teeth may shift to “make space,” creating crossbite patterns.
Accidents or jaw injuries during growth can alter how the teeth or jawbone develop. Even minor trauma can cause teeth to shift in ways that later result in a crossbite.
Note: In most cases, a crossbite is the result of more than one factor. For example, a genetic jaw shape combined with certain habits. That’s why an early orthodontic assessment (around age 7) is often recommended: it helps detect developing crossbites while the jaw is still growing, making treatment simpler and more effective.
A crossbite isn’t always painful or obvious at first, but over time, the way your teeth and jaws fit together can start to affect more than just your smile. Here’s what can happen if it’s left untreated:
Because certain teeth hit in the “wrong” spots, they can wear down faster than they should. This not only makes teeth look uneven but can also expose enamel, making them more sensitive to hot or cold foods.
When your bite is off, your jaw muscles sometimes work harder to compensate. Over time, this can put stress on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), the joint that helps you open and close your mouth, leading to stiffness, soreness, or clicking sounds.
In some cases, a crossbite can slightly affect how the tongue moves against the teeth. This might lead to subtle speech changes or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds clearly.
If teeth don’t meet properly, the pressure on gums and supporting bone can increase. This makes the tissue around certain teeth more vulnerable, sometimes leading to gum recession or even early bone loss.
When the jaw shifts to “make the bite fit,” it can gradually affect facial balance. In growing children, this may lead to one side of the jaw developing differently than the other; in adults, it can cause muscle imbalances that change how the smile looks.
Note: The good news is that these issues are preventable. With orthodontic treatment like clear aligners or braces, your teeth can be guided back into a healthier position, helping protect both your smile and your jaw health long-term.
Correcting a crossbite isn’t just about straightening teeth. It’s about restoring proper bite alignment, protecting your jaw joints, and preventing uneven wear that can lead to long-term dental problems. The right treatment depends on your age, the severity of the crossbite, and whether the issue is caused by teeth, jaw structure, or both. Below are the most common treatment options, explained step by step.
How they work:
Clear aligners are custom-made trays designed to gently shift teeth into better alignment. For a crossbite, aligners apply controlled pressure to gradually move teeth either outward or inward until the bite fits together properly. Treatment begins with a 3D digital scan of your teeth. Your orthodontist or dentist then creates a customized plan that maps out each small movement step by step.
Benefits over braces:
Clear aligners are often effective for mild to moderate crossbites, especially when the issue is dental (teeth position) rather than skeletal (jaw size mismatch).
Traditional braces remain one of the most reliable treatments for crossbite correction. Brackets and wires apply steady pressure to move teeth into the right position. Ceramic braces provide a more discreet alternative with tooth-colored brackets. Braces are particularly effective for complex or severe crossbites where multiple teeth need coordinated movement.
For children and teens whose jaws are still growing, a palatal expander can widen the upper jaw to correct a posterior crossbite (where upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth). The device is attached to the upper molars and gradually widened over several weeks. This treatment is most effective when started early, which would be before the mid-palatal suture fuses in adolescence.
In severe skeletal crossbite cases, where the jawbones themselves are misaligned, orthodontic treatment alone may not be enough. Orthognathic surgery repositions the jaw bones for proper bite alignment. This option is typically reserved for adults with significant functional or aesthetic concerns and is combined with braces or aligners for best results.
Note: The best treatment depends on age, bite complexity, and personal preferences. An orthodontic consultation with 3D imaging can determine which option is the safest and most effective path forward.
Clear aligners are one of the most popular modern solutions for correcting misaligned bites, including certain types of crossbites. However, they aren’t the right choice for everyone.
Best candidates for clear aligners:
Who may not be a good candidate:
Clear aligners are an excellent option for many patients with mild to moderate crossbites, offering a balance of comfort, effectiveness, and discretion. But for more complex or skeletal cases, traditional orthodontics or surgical options may be the better path.
If you’re exploring aligners for crossbite treatment, Zenyum offers different levels of solutions depending on how complex your case is. Each option is designed to balance effectiveness with convenience, so you can choose what best fits your needs.
No matter which option you choose, all ZenyumClear™ aligners are removable, easy to clean, and much less noticeable than braces, giving you flexibility and comfort throughout your treatment.
Getting a straighter, healthier smile doesn’t have to be complicated. With Zenyum, the process is designed to be simple, transparent, and supportive from day one. Here’s an overview of what your treatment journey looks like:
Read more: Your Ultimate Guide To Zenyum’s Free Smile Assessment
Start by completing Zenyum’s quick Smile Check online (it’s free!). You’ll answer a few easy questions about your teeth and upload photos of your smile from different angles. Don’t worry though, because there are clear instructions to help you capture accurate pictures using just your phone. Relax your jaw and keep your bite natural so the team can assess your smile properly.
After your online submission, you’ll be scheduled for an in-person appointment with one of Zenyum’s partner dentists or orthodontists. During this visit, your dentist will perform a full check-up and may take X-rays or a digital 3D scan. This makes sure that every detail of your teeth and bite is recorded to design a treatment plan tailored specifically for you.
Next, Zenyum creates a personalized digital treatment plan. You’ll see a step-by-step simulation of how your teeth will move and what your final results could look like. This preview helps you feel confident about what’s ahead and gives you a clear vision of your future smile.
Once you’re happy with the plan, your aligners are manufactured with precision technology for a snug and effective fit. Each set is custom-made to guide your teeth gradually into their ideal positions.
When your aligners are ready, you’ll attend a fitting appointment where you will receive your entire set. The dentist will show you how to wear and care for them so that they remain clear, comfortable, and discreet throughout your treatment.
From start to finish, the Zenyum team stays connected with you- tracking your progress, offering guidance, and making sure everything runs smoothly so you can enjoy a confident new smile with ease!
Crossbites are a common dental concern, and while they can lead to issues over time if not corrected, the encouraging news is that today’s orthodontic treatments make fixing them easier and more comfortable than ever. Many people can now choose clear aligners, which offer a discreet, removable, and highly effective way to correct mild to moderate crossbites, often without the need for braces or surgery.
If you think you may have a crossbite, scheduling a consultation is the perfect first step. With the help of modern digital technology, your orthodontist can create a personalized 3D treatment plan that shows each stage of progress, giving you clarity and confidence as you move toward a healthier bite and a more confident smile!
Yes! For many mild to moderate crossbites, clear aligners can provide a lasting correction. Once treatment is complete and retainers are used as recommended, results can be permanent. More complex skeletal cases may need additional orthodontic support, but aligners are an excellent solution for many people.
Treatment time varies, but most people see great results within 6–18 months with aligners. Braces may take a little longer, and surgical cases can require extra time. The positive news is that every step moves you closer to a healthier, more comfortable smile.
Crossbites can be corrected with clear aligners, braces, palatal expanders for children, or jaw surgery for severe skeletal cases. The encouraging part is that there are multiple options! Your orthodontist will recommend the approach that best matches your needs and lifestyle.
If left untreated, a crossbite may eventually cause uneven tooth wear, gum irritation, or jaw discomfort. The good news is that with timely treatment, these issues can be prevented, helping you maintain strong teeth, healthy gums, and long-term comfort.
A crossbite is definitely something worth paying attention to, but the great news is that it can be treated successfully at any age. Even if it doesn’t cause discomfort right away, addressing it early helps protect your teeth, gums, and jaw joints while also improving overall comfort and confidence in your smile. With today’s orthodontic options like clear aligners, treatment can be both effective and convenient.
Answer a few questions, and take four teeth pictures. It only takes a few minutes!
Receive a call from us to schedule your dentist appointment
You’ll have 3D scans and X-rays taken of your teeth by your dentist
Give the green light for your Zenyum aligners to go into production after approved by your dentist.
