Introduction
Crossbite is a dental condition where some of the upper teeth sit inside or directly on top of the lower teeth after closing the mouth. It can lead to a variety of issues, including tooth wear, gum disease, jaw problems, and even speech impediments. Correcting crossbite is crucial for both oral health and overall well - being. In New York City, there are several outstanding hospitals and clinics that offer top - notch crossbite correction services. This article will introduce you to the top 5 institutions in the city that excel in this field.
Understanding Crossbite
What is Crossbite?
A crossbite occurs when there is a misalignment of the upper and lower jaws. It can be classified into anterior crossbite, where some of the top teeth sit behind the bottom teeth, similar to an underbite, and posterior crossbite, where some upper teeth sit in front of the lower teeth, similar to an overbite. According to multiple sources, having a crossbite may cause pain, discomfort, and more serious dental issues in the future such as gum problems, plaque buildup, and even TMJ joint disorder.
Causes of Crossbite
- Genetics: Many people inherit the crossbite condition from their parents. If someone in your family has a crossbite, you are more likely to develop it as well.
- Childhood Habits: Unhealthy childhood habits like thumb - sucking, excessive use of pacifiers beyond the age of three, and mouth breathing can contribute to the development of crossbite. Thumb - sucking can deform the upper palate and cause tooth alignment issues, while mouth breathing can affect the development of the jaw.
- Delayed or Abnormal Tooth Growth: In some cases, permanent teeth may grow in before the baby teeth fall out, leading to misalignment of adult teeth in the jaw and resulting in crossbite.
The Top 5 Hospitals for Crossbite Correction in New York City
1. 209 NYC Dental
209 NYC Dental is New York State's oldest continuously operating dental practice, founded in 1887. It has a long - standing legacy of providing high - quality dental care to New York City consumers for over a century.
Expertise in Crossbite Correction: They have a team of top - rated dentists, hygienists, and employees with excellent clinical and interpersonal abilities. Their treatments for crossbite include Invisalign for crossbite. Dr. Benjamin Ahn, a diamond plus provider of Invisalign, leads the team. He has over 20 years of experience using Invisalign technology to treat a wide range of malocclusions, including crossbite. During a smile assessment consultation, the team will show patients how Invisalign can transform their smile using itero simulation. They use a 3D imaging scanner to conduct dental examinations and scans, and then recommend the most suitable treatment option.
Advantages: The clinic offers all dental specialties, so patients can get comprehensive dental care from routine cleanings to more advanced orthodontic treatment under one roof. The use of advanced technology like 3D imaging scanners ensures accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. Invisalign offers benefits such as comfort, invisibility, ease of cleaning, and enhanced self - confidence.
2. Mount Sinai Hospital
Mount Sinai Hospital is a well - known medical institution that is nationally ranked in 12 adult specialties and 4 pediatric specialties according to U.S. News.
Expertise in Crossbite Correction: Mount Sinai's division of oral and maxillofacial surgery performs orthognathic / corrective jaw surgery for crossbites. Orthognathic surgery involves moving the upper jaw (maxilla) and lower jaw (mandible) to an anatomically correct position, allowing for a good occlusion (bite), opening of the airway, and facial symmetry. The typical treatment sequence begins with an evaluation by the orthodontist and the oral and maxillofacial surgeon, which includes x - rays, models of the dentition, photographs, facial measurements, and a complete analysis of the data. The team uses the most advanced 3D x - rays and computer - assisted technology for treatment planning. They also employ virtual surgical planning (VSP), which allows the surgeon to “rehearse” the surgery in a virtual environment before the actual procedure in the operating room.
Advantages: The use of advanced technology for diagnosis and treatment planning ensures high - precision surgery. The hospital has a multi - disciplinary team approach, involving both orthodontists and oral and maxillofacial surgeons, which provides comprehensive care for patients with crossbite.
3. NYU Langone Orthopedic Hospital
NYU Langone Orthopedic Hospital is nationally ranked in 13 adult specialties and 3 pediatric specialties.
Expertise in Crossbite Correction: While specific details on crossbite correction may vary, the hospital's overall orthopedic and dental expertise can contribute to treating crossbite. It is likely to offer a range of treatment options, including orthodontic treatments and in some cases, surgical correction for more severe crossbites. The hospital's experienced medical staff can accurately diagnose the cause and severity of the crossbite and recommend the most appropriate treatment.
Advantages: The hospital's national ranking indicates its high - quality medical services. With a focus on orthopedics and related fields, it has access to advanced medical technologies and a large pool of experienced specialists, which can provide comprehensive and effective treatment for crossbite patients.
4. Tribeca Dental Care
Tribeca Dental Care is known as an NYC Invisalign expert.
Expertise in Crossbite Correction: They offer Invisalign treatment for crossbite. Invisalign consists of a set of clear plastic trays that gently realign the teeth over time and can be removed as needed for eating, brushing teeth, or other reasons. In many cases, a crossbite can be completely remedied by Invisalign. For adults, the typical course of treatment should be expected to run more than a year, while youths might see somewhat faster results. After treatment, patients are advised to continue maintaining good dental health habits and see a dentist regularly.
Advantages: Their focus on Invisalign treatment means they have in - depth knowledge and experience in using this technology for crossbite correction. The clear aligners are discreet, comfortable, and convenient for patients, which can improve the treatment experience and compliance.
5. 172 NYC Dental
172 NYC Dental is proud to have NYC's top Invisalign provider, Dr. Sang (Ben) Ahn, as part of its multidisciplinary team.
Expertise in Crossbite Correction: Dr. Ahn has specialized in Invisalign treatment for over 20 years and is among the top 1% of all practitioners in the nation. He will work to ensure the treatment is as comfortable and discreet as possible. During the initial appointments, the team will complete a smile assessment, looking for all the signs of a crossbite. Once the condition is diagnosed, they take a 3D scan of the teeth to ensure Invisalign is the most suitable treatment option. Invisalign clear aligners are practically invisible, and each set is worn for about a week, after which they are replaced with the next set until the teeth shift into their newly corrected position.
Advantages: The presence of a top - rated Invisalign provider ensures high - quality treatment. The use of 3D scanning technology for diagnosis provides accurate results. Invisalign offers patients a comfortable and discreet way to correct their crossbite.
Comparison of Treatment Options
| Hospital | Treatment Option | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| 209 NYC Dental | Invisalign for crossbite | Comprehensive dental care, advanced 3D imaging, experienced Invisalign provider, enhanced patient comfort and self - confidence | May not be suitable for very severe crossbites that require surgical intervention |
| Mount Sinai Hospital | Orthognathic surgery | Advanced technology for treatment planning, multi - disciplinary team approach, suitable for severe cases | More invasive, longer recovery time, potential risks associated with surgery |
| NYU Langone Orthopedic Hospital | Orthodontic and possible surgical options | National ranking, access to advanced technologies and specialists | Treatment details may vary depending on individual cases |
| Tribeca Dental Care | Invisalign for crossbite | Expertise in Invisalign, discreet and convenient treatment | May not be suitable for all types of crossbites |
| 172 NYC Dental | Invisalign for crossbite | Top - rated Invisalign provider, 3D scanning for accurate diagnosis, comfortable and discreet treatment | Similar to other Invisalign - based treatments, may not work for severe cases |
Steps to Choose the Right Hospital for Crossbite Correction
1. Evaluate Expertise
Look for hospitals or clinics with experienced dentists, orthodontists, and oral and maxillofacial surgeons. Check their qualifications, years of experience, and success rates in treating crossbite. For example, hospitals with diamond plus Invisalign providers or those with a long - standing reputation in orthognathic surgery are often a good choice.
2. Consider Treatment Options
Depending on the severity of your crossbite, different treatment options may be more suitable. If you have a mild to moderate crossbite, Invisalign - based treatments may be sufficient. However, for severe cases, surgical correction may be necessary. Make sure the hospital offers the treatment option that best suits your needs.
3. Review Technology and Facilities
Hospitals that use advanced technologies such as 3D imaging scanners, virtual surgical planning, and the latest orthodontic equipment can provide more accurate diagnoses and better treatment results. Check if the hospital has a well - equipped facility to support your treatment.
4. Read Patient Reviews
Online reviews from other patients can give you an idea of the hospital's quality of care, patient experience, and success rates. Look for reviews that specifically mention crossbite correction to get relevant information.
5. Check Insurance Coverage
Contact your insurance provider to see which hospitals and treatment options are covered. This can help you avoid unexpected costs and make your treatment more affordable.
Importance of Early Crossbite Correction
Early detection and correction of crossbite are crucial. If left untreated, crossbite can lead to a variety of problems, including:
- Dental Issues: Uneven tooth wear, gum disease, plaque buildup, and tooth decay are more likely to occur in patients with untreated crossbite. This can lead to tooth loss and other serious dental problems in the long run.
- Jaw and Muscle Problems: Crossbite can cause abnormal stress on the jaw joints and muscles, leading to jaw pain, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, and headaches. These problems can affect a person's ability to chew, speak, and open and close their mouth properly.
- Speech Impediments: Misaligned teeth and jaws can interfere with normal speech development, causing speech problems such as lisps or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds.
- Facial Asymmetry: Over time, untreated crossbite can cause facial asymmetry, which can affect a person's appearance and self - confidence.
Conclusion
Crossbite is a common dental problem that can have significant impacts on oral health and overall well - being. In New York City, there are several top - notch hospitals and clinics that offer excellent crossbite correction services. The top 5 institutions, 209 NYC Dental, Mount Sinai Hospital, NYU Langone Orthopedic Hospital, Tribeca Dental Care, and 172 NYC Dental, each have their own unique expertise and advantages. When choosing a hospital for crossbite correction, it is important to evaluate factors such as expertise, treatment options, technology, patient reviews, and insurance coverage.
Don't let crossbite affect your quality of life. If you suspect you or someone you know has a crossbite, take the first step towards a healthier smile by scheduling a consultation with one of these top hospitals in New York City. Share this article with others who may be struggling with crossbite, and encourage them to seek professional help.
