Crossbite
Upper teeth sitting inside the lower — can affect bite function and wear.
What it means
Understanding crossbite
A crossbite is where one or more upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when the mouth is closed, rather than slightly outside them as is usual. It can affect the front or the back teeth, on one or both sides, and can be down to the position of individual teeth or the wider relationship of the jaws. Left unaddressed, a crossbite can contribute to uneven wear and, in some cases, to jaw strain.
Because a crossbite changes how the teeth meet, it can place uneven forces on particular teeth over time. Whether and how to treat it depends on the type of crossbite and its effects, which is why an individual assessment matters.
A GDC-registered dentist will examine how your teeth meet, explain the type of crossbite present and discuss suitable options with realistic expectations.
Common causes of crossbite
Several factors can contribute to crossbite. Being aware of them can help — though only an examination can confirm what applies to you. Common contributing factors include:
- The position of individual teeth
- A difference in the width or position of the jaws
- Crowding affecting how teeth erupt
- Inherited characteristics
- Early loss of baby teeth affecting development
- A combination of dental and skeletal factors
Signs and symptoms to look out for
Symptoms vary from person to person, and some can be subtle. You may notice one or more of the following:
- Upper teeth biting inside the lower teeth in places
- Uneven wear on affected teeth
- The jaw shifting to one side when closing
- Difficulty with certain biting movements
- Occasional jaw discomfort
- An asymmetric appearance in some cases
How we assess it at our Wimpole Street practice
Because the same symptoms can have different causes, an accurate diagnosis always comes first. At Wimpole Dental, a GDC-registered dentist will listen to your concerns, examine the area and — where clinically appropriate — take X-rays or other records to understand what is happening beneath the surface. Our practice is regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), and every clinician is registered with the General Dental Council (GDC).
You will then have your options explained in plain English, with a written, itemised estimate before any treatment begins — and never any pressure to proceed. Flexible payment options may be available — ask at your consultation.
What to expect when you visit us
From your very first contact, our aim is to make dental care feel calm, clear and unhurried. A member of our reception team will help you find a time that suits you, including evening and weekend appointments, and if you are in pain we will do our best to see you the same day. You are welcome as a new patient, and there is no obligation to proceed with any treatment.
At your appointment, a GDC-registered dentist will take time to understand your concerns about crossbite, carry out a careful examination and, where clinically appropriate, take X-rays or other records. They will then explain what they have found and set out the suitable options — from doing nothing and monitoring, through to the treatments described above — so you can make an informed decision that is right for you.
If you feel anxious about visiting the dentist, you are far from alone, and we are experienced in caring for nervous patients. Please tell us how you feel when you book: we will move at your pace, explain each step before it happens, and focus on keeping you comfortable throughout. Our priority is honest, gentle care that puts your long-term health first.
Solutions & treatment options
Where a crossbite relates mainly to the position of the teeth, clear aligner treatment can, in suitable cases, move the teeth into a better relationship, followed by a retainer to hold the result. Treatment always starts with a full assessment to confirm the type of crossbite and your suitability.
More pronounced crossbites involving the width or position of the jaws can be more complex, and your dentist will explain the appropriate route, including any onward referral where needed. Addressing a crossbite can help distribute biting forces more evenly and protect the teeth.
Your dentist will be honest about what alignment can achieve for your particular crossbite and provide a written estimate beforehand, as individual results vary.
The treatment we most often use
ProAligner Clear Aligners
Near-invisible, removable clear aligners that straighten teeth discreetly — from simple front-tooth correction to comprehensive alignment.
Prevention & everyday care
While professional care is important, good daily habits make a real difference. The following steps can help:
- Seek assessment early, especially if the jaw shifts on closing
- Wear a retainer after alignment treatment
- Have uneven wear monitored and protected
- Keep teeth and gums healthy for stability
- Replace missing teeth to prevent drifting
- Follow professional advice on the most suitable approach
When to see a dentist
If this sounds familiar, it's worth having it assessed early — problems are almost always simpler to treat when caught sooner. A £30 consultation lets a GDC-registered dentist find the cause and explain your options in plain English, with no pressure to proceed.
Questions & Answers
Frequently asked questions
Not every crossbite needs treatment, but because it can contribute to uneven tooth wear and, in some cases, jaw strain, it is worth having assessed. Your dentist will advise whether treatment is beneficial based on the type and effects of your crossbite.
Clear aligners can improve many crossbites that relate mainly to tooth position. More pronounced crossbites involving the jaws can be more complex. An assessment determines whether aligners are suitable for your particular case.
An untreated crossbite can place uneven forces on certain teeth, which over time may contribute to wear or discomfort. Having it assessed allows your dentist to advise whether treatment would help protect your teeth and improve function.
No. This page is general education to help you understand a common concern. It is not a diagnosis, and the same symptoms can have different causes. Only an in-person examination by a GDC-registered dentist can confirm what is happening and what, if anything, needs treating.
You will always receive a written, itemised quote before any treatment begins. New patients start with a £30 consultation; flexible payment options may be available — ask at your consultation.
That is very common and completely understood. Our team is experienced in caring for anxious patients: your dentist will explain everything in plain English, work at your pace and never pressure you to proceed. Let us know how you feel when you book so we can make your visit as calm and comfortable as possible.
Yes. Wimpole Dental is regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), and every clinician is registered with the General Dental Council (GDC), with numbers you can verify on the public register. Our marketing follows advertising standards guidance for healthcare, and we never guarantee outcomes.
You can book online, request a call back, or call us on 020 7183 0692. New patients are welcome, and we offer evening and weekend appointments as well as same-day emergency slots where possible.
Related concerns in alignment
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22 Wimpole St, London W1G 8GQ · CQC regulated · GDC-registered clinicians