A crossbite is a common bite problem where upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth rather than outside them.
Many patients assume crossbite correction requires traditional braces, but Invisalign can effectively treat most crossbites using clear, removable aligners. In this guide, we explain how Invisalign corrects crossbites, what the treatment involves, and how much it costs.
What Is a Crossbite?
A crossbite occurs when one or more upper teeth close inside the lower teeth instead of outside them. There are two types:
- Anterior crossbite – front upper teeth sit behind the lower front teeth
- Posterior crossbite – back upper teeth sit inside the lower back teeth
Untreated crossbites can cause uneven tooth wear, jaw pain, difficulty chewing, and in some cases, changes to facial symmetry over time.
How Invisalign Treats a Crossbite
Invisalign corrects crossbites by applying controlled pressure through a series of custom aligners to move the affected teeth into their correct position:
- Upper teeth are moved outward to sit over the lower teeth
- Lower teeth may be adjusted inward if needed
- Attachments (tooth-coloured bumps) provide extra leverage for precise movements
- Elastics may be used to help guide the bite alignment
The treatment plan is designed digitally, so you can see a 3D preview of your expected results before starting.
Expert Tip: Invisalign attachments for crossbite correction are small, tooth-coloured, and barely noticeable. They give the aligners the grip needed to make crossbite movements that smooth aligners alone cannot achieve. Do not be concerned about appearance – most people will not notice them.
Crossbite Correction Before & After
Before and after photographs are the most honest way to understand what Invisalign can realistically achieve for a crossbite. Numbers and explanations only go so far — seeing the difference in tooth position, bite alignment, and smile symmetry gives you a clear reference point for what to expect from your own treatment.
In most crossbite cases, the change is visible within the first three to six months. Upper teeth that previously sat inside the lower arch begin to move outward, the bite starts to close evenly, and the jawline naturally relaxes. By the end of treatment, the teeth meet in their intended position, the smile looks wider and more balanced, and patients often report less chewing discomfort.
The example below shows a typical anterior crossbite correction using Invisalign. In the “before” image, the lower front teeth noticeably protrude forward. When the patient closes their mouth, some of the upper front teeth sit behind the lower ones rather than in front — the defining sign of an anterior crossbite. You may also notice a slight asymmetry in the smile line and a lower jaw that appears pushed forward.
In the “after” image, the same patient’s teeth now meet correctly: the upper teeth sit neatly in front of the lower teeth, the bite closes evenly, and the overall smile looks more balanced and symmetrical. The protruding lower teeth are no longer visible when smiling, and the jawline looks softer and more natural.
The improvement in both bite function and smile appearance is typically significant, even in mild cases. Patients often tell us the bite feels more comfortable long before they notice the visual change — a sign the correction is working at a functional level, not just a cosmetic one.
What to Expect During Invisalign Crossbite Treatment
Treatment follows a predictable process from consultation to final result:
- Consultation and scan — a 3D digital scan of your teeth is taken (no impressions needed). Your dentist assesses whether your crossbite is dental or skeletal.
- Digital treatment plan — you see a simulation of your tooth movements before committing to treatment.
- Aligner fabrication — your custom aligners are made and delivered. Attachments are bonded at this appointment.
- Active treatment — you wear each set of aligners for 1-2 weeks. Appointments are typically every 6-8 weeks to monitor progress.
- Refinements if needed — additional aligner sets may be prescribed to fine-tune the bite at the end of the main series.
- Retainers — fixed or removable retainers hold the corrected position permanently.
Treatment length depends on crossbite complexity. Mild cases typically take 6 to 9 months. Moderate to complex cases take 9 to 18 months.
When Invisalign May Not Be Suitable
Invisalign works well for dental crossbites (tooth position issues). It may not be suitable for:
- Skeletal crossbites where the jaw itself is misaligned
- Severe bilateral crossbites requiring significant expansion
- Growing children who may benefit from palatal expanders first
Your dentist will determine whether your crossbite is dental or skeletal during your consultation.
Helpful Tip: If you have been told your crossbite needs braces, consider getting a second opinion from an Invisalign provider. Aligner technology has advanced significantly and many cases previously considered unsuitable can now be treated with clear aligners.
Frequently Asked Questions – Invisalign & Crossbite
Can Invisalign fix a crossbite in adults?
Yes. Adult crossbite correction with Invisalign is effective for dental crossbites. Age is not a barrier.
Is Invisalign better than braces for crossbite?
For mild to moderate dental crossbites, both are equally effective. Invisalign offers the advantage of being invisible and removable.
Will my crossbite return after treatment?
Not with consistent retainer use. Retainers hold the corrected bite in place permanently.
Does crossbite correction with Invisalign hurt?
Mild pressure when fitting new aligners is normal and subsides within 1-2 days. Most patients find it more comfortable than braces.
Can a crossbite cause jaw problems?
Yes. Untreated crossbites can lead to TMJ discomfort, uneven wear, and headaches. Correction often resolves these symptoms.
How do I know if I have a crossbite?
Bite together and look in a mirror. If any upper teeth sit behind or inside the lower teeth, you may have a crossbite. A dental examination confirms the diagnosis.
Crossbite Treatment in North London
Smiledent in North London specialises in clear aligner and Invisalign treatment for crossbite correction. Our team takes a thorough approach — we scan your teeth digitally, build a 3D treatment simulation so you can see your result before you start, and monitor your progress closely throughout.
We are proud of our perfect 5-star review score, reflecting the care and results our patients experience from their very first consultation. Interest-free finance is available to spread the cost of treatment.
Book your free consultation today
Invisalign for Crossbite: What You Need to Know
Invisalign has transformed how crossbites are treated. What once required fixed metal braces for 18 to 24 months can now often be corrected with clear, removable aligners in a shorter time frame, with none of the social awkwardness patients used to dread.
The key is that crossbite correction with Invisalign is precise and predictable. Your treatment is planned digitally before your first aligner is fitted, and you can see a 3D preview of your final result. That level of clarity did not exist a decade ago.
Here are the essential points every patient should remember:
- Invisalign can fix most crossbites effectively in adults and teenagers
- Treatment takes 6 to 18 months depending on severity
- Attachments and elastics may be needed for optimal results
- Retainers are essential to prevent the crossbite returning
- A consultation determines suitability for clear aligner treatment
- Dental crossbites respond best — skeletal cases may need alternative treatment
Crossbite correction is not just a cosmetic decision. Left untreated, a crossbite can cause uneven tooth wear, jaw strain, and long-term changes to facial symmetry. The earlier it is addressed, the simpler the treatment tends to be.
If you have a crossbite affecting your bite or confidence, a professional assessment is the best first step to understanding whether Invisalign is right for you.
Information Sources
Invisalign Crossbite Treatment Guide (Invisalign UK)
NHS Orthodontics Treatment Information (NHS)
Early Risk Factors for Crossbite (PMC)
Facial Asymmetry and Functional Crossbite (PMC)
Clear Aligner Crossbite Clinical Trial (PubMed)
