What Causes Crossbite? Can It Be Corrected Using Invisalign?

Crossbites are a common type of dental misalignment that can affect both the function and appearance of your smile. At Leaside Orthodontic Centre, we frequently treat patients with crossbites, and many ask whether Invisalign is a viable solution. In this blog, we’ll explain what a crossbite is, what causes it, the risks of leaving it untreated, and how Invisalign clear aligners can be used to correct it.

What Is a Crossbite?

A crossbite occurs when one or more upper teeth sit behind the lower teeth when the jaws are closed. It can affect the front teeth (anterior crossbite), back teeth (posterior crossbite), or both. Crossbites can involve a single tooth or multiple teeth.

Types of Crossbite

Type of Crossbite	Description
Anterior Crossbite	Upper front teeth bite behind lower front teeth.
Posterior Crossbite	Upper back teeth bite inside the lower back teeth.
Unilateral Crossbite	Affects only one side of the mouth.
Bilateral Crossbite	Affects both sides of the mouth.
Dental Crossbite	Caused by misaligned teeth, not jaw structure.
Skeletal Crossbite	Caused by improper jaw positioning (upper jaw too narrow or lower too wide).

What Causes Crossbite?

Crossbites can develop due to a combination of genetic, developmental, and environmental factors:

Cause	Description
Genetics	Inherited jaw structure or tooth eruption patterns.
Delayed or Irregular Tooth Eruption	Baby teeth not falling out on time or adult teeth erupting out of alignment.
Thumb Sucking / Pacifier Use	Prolonged habits can shift the position of teeth and jaws.
Airway Obstruction	Chronic mouth breathing due to nasal congestion can affect jaw development.
Missing Teeth	Gaps may cause neighboring teeth to shift abnormally.
Jaw Size Discrepancy	A mismatch between the upper and lower jaws can result in crossbite.

Why Is It Important to Correct a Crossbite?

Untreated crossbites can lead to long-term issues:

Risk of Leaving Crossbite Untreated	Potential Effects
Uneven Tooth Wear	Excess pressure on certain teeth.
Jaw Pain / TMJ Issues	Misalignment affects jaw joints and muscles.
Gum Recession	Lower teeth pressing against upper gums can cause gum damage.
Chewing and Biting Difficulties	Inefficient chewing and discomfort while eating.
Asymmetrical Facial Growth (in children)	Improper jaw development over time.
Speech Impediments	Misaligned teeth and jaws can affect articulation.

Can Invisalign Fix a Crossbite?

Yes, Invisalign can effectively treat many types of crossbite, particularly dental crossbites. Invisalign uses a series of custom-made, clear aligners that gradually shift teeth into their proper positions.

When Is Invisalign Effective for Crossbite?

Condition	Invisalign Suitability
Mild to moderate dental crossbite	✅ Often treatable with Invisalign.
Single-tooth crossbite	✅ Commonly corrected with Invisalign.
Posterior dental crossbite	✅ Treatable with attachments and elastics.
Skeletal crossbite (jaw discrepancy)	❌ May require braces, expanders, or surgery.

Invisalign Treatment Process for Crossbite at Leaside Orthodontic Centre

1. Consultation & 3D Scan

   We use our advanced iTero Lumina Intraoral Scanner to capture a full digital model of your teeth and bite.

2. Custom Treatment Plan

   Using multi-direct capture technology and 12 mm scanning distance, we design a plan tailored to your specific crossbite.

3. Clear Aligner Fabrication

   Invisalign aligners are created from smooth, medical-grade plastic to apply precise pressure.

4. Progress Tracking

   We monitor your bite correction over time using visual simulations and data stored securely on file.

5. Retention Phase

   After alignment is complete, we provide retainers to maintain your corrected bite long-term.

Invisalign vs Braces for Crossbite Correction

Feature	Invisalign	Braces
Appearance	Virtually invisible	Visible metal or ceramic
Comfort	Smooth, no wires or brackets	May cause irritation
Removability	Removable for eating and hygiene	Fixed in place
Suitability for Severe Cases	Limited (skeletal crossbite)	Better for complex corrections
Oral Hygiene	Easier to maintain	More challenging
Follow-up Appointments	Every 6–10 weeks	Typically every 4–6 weeks

Book a Consultation for Invisalign in Toronto

At Leaside Orthodontic Centre, we offer Invisalign as a comfortable and discreet option to correct crossbite and many other types of misalignment. Dr. Emel Arat and our experienced team will assess your condition and determine the best treatment plan for your unique needs.

Take the first step toward a healthy bite and beautiful smile. Contact us today to learn more about Invisalign for crossbite correction.