What does “Anterior crossbite and a prominent lower jaw” mean?
An anterior crossbite means the upper front teeth bite behind the lower front teeth. It can occur alongside a prominent lower jaw, but tooth inclination or a shift of the jaw during closure can also cause it. The two descriptions are therefore not the same diagnosis.
Separate tooth position from the relationship between the jawbones
Treatment for a crossbite caused by upper or lower incisor inclination differs from a plan for a problem involving the front-to-back jaw relationship. Assessment also checks whether the jaw moves forward to avoid an interfering tooth contact during closure. A frontal photograph alone cannot establish skeletal Class III malocclusion.
Assess growth alongside the full treatment needs
Appliances and timing depend on the available space, type of tooth movement needed, growth and cooperation. Distinguish a problem that can be addressed locally at the front teeth from one requiring assessment of jaw relationships and asymmetry. Early treatment during growth does not guarantee that later treatment or surgery will be unnecessary.
Confirm goals through the bite and retention plan
Assessment considers how the teeth meet and the condition of supporting tissues, rather than only whether the lower jaw looks less prominent. The plan also includes maintaining tooth positions after treatment and monitoring growth. Expected changes and treatment duration depend on the cause and growth status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a reversed front-tooth bite always mean a prominent lower jaw?
No. Tooth inclination or a functional jaw shift may be the main issue. Jaw size and position should be diagnosed separately from how the teeth meet.
Does an anterior crossbite always require surgery?
No. Dental, functional and skeletal causes, growth, the overall bite and treatment goals determine what orthodontics can achieve and whether a surgical assessment is needed.
Checking the cause and treatment stages of an anterior crossbite
Learn what the term means and how it relates to your dental condition.
- Sufficient understanding
Is tooth position or the jaw relationship the main cause?
Explanation and evidenceAsk about the teeth involved, incisor inclination, jaw movement during closure, necessary diagnostic records and the skeletal relationship.
AAPD: Developing dentition, space management and crossbite assessment (2024 revision) - A choice suited to your condition
What will this stage change, and what needs later review?
Explanation and evidenceConfirm goals suited to growth status, appliances and alternatives, the possibility of later comprehensive bite treatment or further assessment, and retention and follow-up.
AAPD: Developing dentition, space management and crossbite assessment (2024 revision)
Further reading and references
Further reading
References
- AAPD: Developing dentition, space management and crossbite assessment (2024 revision)aapd.org (opens in a new tab)
- British Orthodontic Society: Assessment, extraction decisions, appliance choice and retention FAQsbos.org.uk (opens in a new tab)
- NHS: Orthodontic appliance components, care and retentionnhs.uk (opens in a new tab)
