Crossbite - can cause facial asymmetry
A most common cause of facial asymmetry is crossbite. In a normal bite, the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth. A crossbite occurs when the lower teeth overlap the upper teeth. It can occur in the back teeth or in the front teeth. When it appears in the front teeth, the result is a protruding chin. The best methods to correct a crossbite is orthodontics to reposition the teeth. A Neuromuscularly trained dentist will use an orthotic (splint) to reposition the jaw so that the teeth can be moved to allow the supporting structures like the muscles to be in a relaxed and pain-free position.This combined therapy can result in a dramatic improvement in facial appearance. Once the condition is corrected, the teeth tend to stay in the new improved position. A compromise result can sometimes be acheived by using full crowns to build out the upper and/or lower arches. This treatment creates a wonderful esthetic correction.