The following case study demonstrates orthodontic conditions that have been successfully treated by Dr. Rucker and his Smile Squad at Rucker Orthodontics. The purpose of this presentation is to help you identify tooth position problems and provide you with examples of our smile transformations.
What is an anterior crossbite?
When the upper front teeth are behind the bottom front teeth, we call this an anterior crossbite. Another common term for this is an underbite. It can give the appearance of a missing tooth when a person smiles and can also cause a patient’s jaw to shift when biting together. What causes an anterior crossbite?
What causes an anterior crossbite?
This condition is either due to dental misalignment, skeletal misalignment, or a combination of the two. Correctly diagnosing the cause of an anterior crossbite is critical in deciding how to treat it. Anterior crossbite is best evaluated by a certified orthodontic specialist during a clinical exam along with radiographic images.
Do anterior crossbites need to be fixed?
Anterior crossbites need to be fixed as soon as they are first discovered in children, as early as age 7. The ideal treatment timing is when baby teeth are still present and while the palatal sutures have not yet fused to each other. Palatal expansion creates room for teeth and helps the development of broader, healthier smiles through adulthood. Dr. Rucker is the most experienced provider of Damon® System braces in the Temecula Valley and is able to achieve this expansion without the use of a rapid palatal expander device.
Meet Jada B.
Bella started her orthodontic journey with us when she was 14 years old. Dr. Rucker diagnosed her anterior crossbite being caused by dental misalignment. In addition to her crossbite, she also presented with a narrow upper jaw and severe crowding.
Bella’s Smile Transformation
Click here to view Bella’s complete smile transformation gallery!
- No rapid palatal expander
- No tooth extractions
- No headgear
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NOTE: The author, Dr. Jonathan Rucker, is a certified specialist in orthodontics (Orthodontist). His private orthodontic practice, Rucker Orthodontics, is located in Temecula, California. He received a Bachelor of Science degree at Brigham Young University, his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) from the Medical College of Virginia, and his orthodontic specialty training at Saint Louis University Center for Advanced Dental Education. He is a certified Damon Braces provider and a preferred Invisalign specialist. He offers the most advanced techniques available in modern orthodontic treatment to ensure his patients achieve their best possible results.