Key Points at a Glance

• Crossbites in adults can cause temporomandibular joint problems, tooth wear, and aesthetic changes

• Treatment is possible even after growth has ceased

• Options include orthodontic treatment or a combination of orthodontics and surgery

• Early treatment prevents future complications

• A consultation at AuraDent™ is the first step toward a stable and healthy bite

Long-term consequences of an untreated crossbite

A crossbite is much more than a cosmetic issue. If left untreated, it can lead to significant changes in the function of the bite and affect the entire jaw system.

• Progressive tooth wear: Improper contact between the teeth causes uneven pressure that gradually wears down the enamel. Over time, this can shorten the teeth and increase sensitivity.

• Gum recession: Uneven pressure can cause the gums to recede, exposing the tooth necks and increasing the risk of inflammation and sensitivity.

• TMJ problems: Adults with crossbites often experience tension, headaches, and pain in the temporomandibular joint. Clicking sounds when chewing or morning stiffness in the jaw are common signs of joint imbalance.

• Facial asymmetry: Even though skeletal growth has ceased, the previous imbalance can cause visible asymmetry in the lower jaw or cheek structure.

• Impact on other dental care: An untreated crossbite can complicate or compromise the results of other treatments, such as crowns, implants, or bridges. Correcting the bite thus improves long-term stability for future restorative procedures.

Symptoms You May Experience as an Adult

The signs of a crossbite in adults can be subtle but develop gradually. Many people do not realize that their problems stem from the position of their bite. Common symptoms include:

• Recurring headaches, especially in the temples

• Tension, fatigue, or pain in the jaw and facial muscles

• Clicking or painful sounds when opening the mouth

• Cracks, fractures, or recurring damage to teeth and fillings

• A feeling that the teeth do not meet evenly

Recognizing these signs early is important to avoid long-term complications.

Can a crossbite in adults be treated?

Yes, a crossbite can be corrected even in adult patients. The treatment is tailored depending on whether the problem is of dental (tooth-related) or skeletal (jaw-related) origin.

Orthodontic Treatment (Teeth Alignment)

In milder forms of crossbite where the position of the teeth is the main cause, the bite can be corrected with orthodontic treatment. Options such as fixed braces or modern aligners, for example Invisalign, can move the teeth into the correct position. This method provides gradual improvement in function and aesthetics without surgical intervention.

Combination of Orthodontics and Oral Surgery

For more complex skeletal crossbites, a combination of orthodontic treatment and oral surgery is used. The surgery adjusts the position of the jaws, while orthodontic treatment, such as various types of braces, fine-tunes the alignment of the teeth.

This combination provides a stable and harmonious result and is often used for patients with long-standing facial asymmetry or pronounced imbalance in the jaw system.

For a more detailed overview of the different methods, read our article on crossbite treatment, which describes how treatment is planned and adapted for both children and adults with crossbites.

Why is it important to treat crossbites regardless of age?

Ignoring a crossbite in adulthood can have far-reaching consequences for both oral health and quality of life. Treatment reduces the risk of pain, wear, and loss of function, while also improving appearance.

The benefits of treatment include:

• More even distribution of chewing forces

• Reduced risk of wear and damage to the teeth

• Improved function of the temporomandibular joint

• A more aesthetically symmetrical facial profile

• Reduced risk of secondary problems such as crooked teeth and inflammation

Even if you are no longer in the growth phase, modern orthodontic methods and surgical techniques can restore balance to your bite and significantly improve function.

Conclusion: An Investment in Your Health

Living with an untreated crossbite as an adult can eventually affect both your oral health and your quality of life. The longer the condition goes untreated, the more complex the treatment may become.

However, with today’s technology, there are effective solutions that can restore both comfort and aesthetics.

To understand which treatment is right for you, the first step is a consultation with our specialists at AuraDent™. We offer individually tailored treatment plans that range from orthodontics to advanced oral surgery.

Take the first step toward a healthy and stable bite today by booking your consultation at AuraDent™.