Crossbite Treatment on Mercer Island
When your bite doesn't line up, everything else feels off too.
Maybe your dentist mentioned it at your child's last checkup. Or maybe you've noticed that something looks "off" when you or your teen bites down — like some upper teeth are sitting behind the lower ones instead of in front. Either way, you searched for crossbite treatment because you want answers, not a lecture.
Here's the short version: a crossbite is treatable at any age, but earlier is almost always better. And at Islander Orthodontics, Dr. Alissa Borda — a board-certified orthodontist who grew up right here on the Island — has the training and experience to correct crossbites for Mercer Island families, with treatment options that fit your life and your budget.
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What You'll Learn in This Article
- What a crossbite actually is (and the two types you need to know about)
- Why untreated crossbites get worse — not better — over time
- How we fix crossbites at different ages (kids, teens, and adults)
- What causes crossbites in the first place
- Real cost expectations and payment options
- Signs that you or your child might have a crossbite
- What to expect at your free exam
One Less Thing to Worry About
You've got enough on your plate. Between work, kids' activities, school drop-offs, and everything else demanding your attention, the last thing you need is another source of stress. That's exactly why Dr. Borda built a practice that takes the worry out of orthodontic care.
From the moment you walk into our Mercerdale Professional Center office, you'll know you made the right call. We check your insurance before your appointment, give you a complete cost breakdown upfront (no surprises), and create a treatment plan that actually makes sense for your family. Dr. Borda takes time to answer every question — and her team gets back to you quickly when you call or message.
When you leave your first visit, you'll have clarity on exactly what's going on with your bite, what your options are, and what it will cost. Then you can check "figure out the orthodontist situation" off your list and move on to the hundred other things waiting for your attention.
Crossbite Treatment at a Glance
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Best age to treat | Ages 7–10 for jaw expansion; teens and adults can still achieve full correction |
| Treatment options | Palatal expanders, braces, clear aligners, elastics |
| Treatment time | Expanders: 3–6 months active + stabilization. Braces/aligners: 12–24 months |
| Cost range | $3,000 – $7,000 depending on complexity |
| Insurance | All orthodontic insurance accepted; benefits verified before your visit |
| Exams | Always free, includes complete cost breakdown |
What Is a Crossbite, Exactly?
A crossbite happens when your upper and lower teeth don't line up the way they should when you close your mouth. Normally, your upper teeth should sit slightly outside your lower teeth — like a lid on a box. With a crossbite, one or more upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth instead.
There are two main types:
Posterior Crossbite
This is the more common one. It involves the back teeth and usually means the upper jaw is too narrow. You might notice your child's jaw shifting to one side when they bite down, or that their smile looks slightly asymmetrical.
Anterior Crossbite
This affects the front teeth. One or more upper front teeth sit behind the lower front teeth. It can look similar to an underbite, though the cause and treatment can be quite different.
Both types need attention. Left alone, a crossbite doesn't correct itself — it typically gets worse over time.
Why Crossbites Shouldn't Wait
We get it. "Your child has a crossbite" sounds alarming, but it's also easy to brush off when everything seems fine on the surface. Here's why it's worth addressing sooner rather than later:
Uneven tooth wear
When teeth don't meet properly, certain teeth absorb more force than they should. Over months and years, that leads to enamel wearing down unevenly — and enamel doesn't grow back.
Jaw pain and TMJ problems
A misaligned bite forces your jaw muscles to compensate. That compensation can lead to clicking, soreness, headaches, and TMJ issues that affect your daily life.
Gum recession
Teeth under stress from a crossbite can develop gum problems. The gum tissue around those teeth may recede over time, exposing the root and increasing sensitivity.
Asymmetric jaw growth in kids
This is the big one for parents. In growing children, an untreated crossbite can cause the jaw to develop unevenly. What starts as a dental issue can become a skeletal one — and skeletal problems are harder (and more expensive) to fix later.
But here's the thing: when caught early, crossbite correction is usually straightforward and much less involved than waiting.
Crossbite Correction Options at Islander Orthodontics
There's no single "crossbite fix" — treatment depends on the type, the severity, and most importantly, the patient's age. Board-certified orthodontist Dr. Alissa Borda evaluates each case individually during your free exam and walks you through exactly what's going on and what your options are.
Here's what treatment typically looks like at different ages:
Crossbite Expanders for Kids (Ages 7–10)
This is the ideal window for crossbite treatment, especially for posterior crossbites caused by a narrow upper jaw. At this age, the jaw is still growing and the midpalatal suture hasn't fused, which means we can guide jaw development rather than just move teeth around.
Palatal expanders are the most common tool here. The expander attaches to the upper back teeth and gradually widens the upper jaw over several weeks.
It sounds more dramatic than it is — kids adapt quickly, and the whole expansion phase typically takes just a few months.
After expansion, some children may need a short phase of braces to fine-tune the alignment. Others are good to go and simply need monitoring until their permanent teeth come in.
Dr. Borda is patient with nervous kids — parents consistently mention this in reviews. If your child needs a palatal expander, she'll explain every step in terms they can understand and make sure they feel comfortable throughout treatment.
Crossbite Treatment for Teens
By the teen years, most permanent teeth are in, which opens up the full range of treatment options. Depending on the crossbite, Dr. Borda may recommend:
- Metal braces — Still the gold standard for complex bite correction. Modern braces are smaller, more comfortable, and more efficient than what you might remember from your own teenage years.
- Clear aligners — For mild to moderate crossbites where the jaw itself doesn't need expansion, clear aligners can gradually shift teeth into proper alignment. Dr. Borda published peer-reviewed research on clear aligners vs. braces in teenagers, so she knows exactly when aligners work well and when braces are the better choice.
- Elastics (rubber bands) — Often used alongside braces or aligners to provide the cross-arch force needed to shift teeth from a crossbite position into proper alignment.
Treatment time for teens typically ranges from 12 to 24 months depending on severity. Dr. Borda's schedule is flexible, with early morning appointments starting at 7 AM — easy to fit in before school at MIHS, Islander Middle School, or any of the Island's elementary schools.
Crossbite Treatment for Adults
If you've been living with a crossbite for years — maybe decades — you're not alone, and you're definitely not out of options. Many adults come to Islander Orthodontics specifically because they've finally decided to address a bite problem they've had since childhood.
For adults, the jaw has finished growing, so treatment focuses on moving teeth into the right position. Depending on the severity:
- Braces handle moderate to severe crossbites effectively
- Clear aligners work well for milder cases and are popular with professionals who want a discreet option
- Surgical orthodontics may be recommended for severe skeletal crossbites where the jaw itself needs repositioning
There's no age limit on fixing a crossbite. The right treatment plan just looks a little different depending on where you're starting from.
What Causes a Crossbite?
Most crossbites trace back to one (or a combination) of these causes:
Genetics
If you or your partner had a crossbite, your child has a higher chance of developing one. Jaw size and shape are largely inherited.
Childhood habits
Prolonged thumb-sucking, pacifier use past age 3, or mouth breathing can affect how the upper jaw develops — sometimes leading to a narrowed palate and posterior crossbite.
Delayed or abnormal tooth eruption
Sometimes adult teeth come in at unexpected angles, crowding neighboring teeth and creating a crossbite that wasn't there before.
Jaw size mismatch
When the upper jaw is naturally narrower than the lower jaw, teeth don't have room to sit where they should.
Understanding the cause helps Dr. Borda design the most effective treatment plan — because treating the cause is always better than just treating the symptom. Her background includes general dentistry training at the Greater Puget Sound VA Hospital before she specialized in orthodontics at OHSU, which gives her a broader clinical perspective than orthodontists who went straight into specialty training.
How Much Does Crossbite Treatment Cost on Mercer Island?
Crossbite treatment at Islander Orthodontics typically ranges from $3,000 to $7,000, depending on the complexity of the case and the type of treatment needed. A child who needs a palatal expander and a short phase of braces will be on the lower end. An adult with a severe crossbite requiring comprehensive braces will be closer to the higher end.
Here's how we handle cost:
- Your free exam includes a complete financial breakdown. No surprises, no "we'll figure it out later." You'll know exactly what treatment will cost before you commit to anything.
- We check your insurance before you even walk in. If you have orthodontic benefits, we'll verify your coverage ahead of time so you know exactly what your out-of-pocket will be. All orthodontic insurance plans are accepted.
- Flexible payment options. We offer in-house financing, accept all major credit cards, and provide a pay-in-full discount if you prefer to handle it all upfront. Visit our payment options page for details.
No one should delay treatment because they're worried about the bill. That's why we'll always find a payment arrangement that fits your family's budget.
Signs You or Your Child Might Have a Crossbite
Not sure if what you're seeing is actually a crossbite? Here are common signs to watch for:
In children:
Jaw shifting to one side when biting, difficulty chewing, one side of the face looking slightly different from the other, complaints of jaw soreness, or teeth that look like they're in the wrong position compared to the opposing teeth.
In teens and adults:
Uneven tooth wear (your dentist may have pointed this out), jaw clicking or popping, recurring headaches concentrated around the temples or jaw, grinding or clenching at night, or a bite that just doesn't feel "right."
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends every child see an orthodontist by age 7 — not because they'll necessarily need treatment that young, but because certain problems like crossbites are much easier to address while the jaw is still growing.
If any of these sound familiar, a quick evaluation can give you clarity. Our exams are free, thorough, and zero-pressure.
Why Mercer Island Families Choose Islander Orthodontics
We serve families from across the Eastside and Seattle — Mercer Island, Bellevue, Renton, Newcastle, Seattle, and communities throughout King County. Located at the center of the I-90 corridor, Islander Orthodontics is an easy drive from both sides of Lake Washington — often faster than navigating Bellevue or Seattle's congested downtown traffic. Here's why families choose Islander Orthodontics for crossbite treatment:
Board-certified expertise
Dr. Borda earned her orthodontic certification from the American Board of Orthodontists — a voluntary credential that goes beyond the standard 2–3 years of advanced specialty training. She completed her orthodontic residency at Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) and has published peer-reviewed research on orthodontic treatment outcomes.
A hometown orthodontist who came back
Dr. Borda grew up on Mercer Island — Pixie Hill through MIHS, class of 2002. She played basketball and softball for the Islanders, marched in the band, and explored every corner of this community. After earning three graduate degrees and completing specialty training, she came home to serve the community that raised her. No other orthodontist on the Island can say that.
Published research you can trust
Dr. Borda's study on clear aligners vs. fixed appliances in teenagers was published in the Angle Orthodontist, one of the field's leading peer-reviewed journals. When she recommends a treatment approach for your crossbite, that recommendation is backed by both clinical experience and scientific research.
Early morning availability
Appointments start at 7 AM Tuesday through Friday and 8 AM on Mondays — easy to fit in before school or work. Our location in the Mercerdale Professional Center is right on the Island, with easy access from Bellevue and Seattle via I-90.
A practice that feels like it belongs here
Islander Orthodontics is independently owned — not a corporate chain. Dr. Borda's husband built the website. The whole operation is designed around what Mercer Island families actually need: great care, flexible scheduling, and an orthodontist who answers all your questions without making you feel rushed.
What Our Patients Say
"Dr. Borda is amazing. She is so patient with my son who can't sit still. She answers all of our questions and takes good care of us. Her schedule is pretty flexible, which helps with my busy work schedule and my son's school schedule."
— Jonathan Yih
"Dr. Borda and her entire team are awesome! They explain treatment super clearly and have such kind bedside manner. The office is beautiful, and kids love the old school video games in the lobby that they can play while we wait for our appointment. My son's teeth look fantastic and we've been very happy with our time with Dr. Borda!"
— Sarah Hollenbeck
"HUGE fan of the entire Islander Orthodontics team from Molly when you walk in to Dr. Borda and her staff through the appointment!! They're detailed and precise with extremely high standards. I felt so well taken care of even before my first appointment when I called for more information. I trust very few people with my teeth and I would recommend Dr. Borda and her team to anybody."
— Stephanie Hammond
With 42 five-star Google reviews and counting, Mercer Island families trust Dr. Borda with their smiles.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crossbite Treatment
No. Crossbites don't self-correct. In children, they tend to get worse as the jaw grows, potentially causing asymmetric development. In adults, untreated crossbites lead to progressive wear, gum problems, and jaw pain. The earlier you address it, the simpler treatment tends to be.
There's typically some mild pressure when an expander is activated or when braces are first placed — similar to what you'd feel with any orthodontic treatment. Most patients describe it as a "tightness" that fades within a few days. Over-the-counter pain relief and soft foods are usually all that's needed.
In many cases, yes — particularly mild to moderate crossbites where the issue is tooth position rather than jaw width. Dr. Borda published research on clear aligners in teenagers, so she'll give you an honest assessment during your free exam about whether aligners are a good fit for your specific crossbite or whether braces would get you a better result.
It depends on the approach. Palatal expansion in children typically takes a few months of active expansion, followed by a stabilization period. Comprehensive treatment with braces or clear aligners generally runs 12 to 24 months. Dr. Borda gives you an estimated timeline upfront so there are no surprises.
An untreated crossbite can lead to uneven enamel wear, increased risk of cavities in stressed teeth, gum recession, chronic jaw pain, TMJ dysfunction, and — in children — asymmetric facial development. Treatment only gets more complex and costly the longer you wait.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. For posterior crossbites caused by a narrow upper jaw, ages 7 to 10 is actually the ideal treatment window because the jaw responds much more easily to expansion at this age.
An underbite is when the entire lower jaw sits forward, causing all the lower front teeth to stick out past the upper teeth. A crossbite is more selective — only certain teeth (front or back) are misaligned, while the rest may bite normally. An anterior crossbite can look similar to an underbite, but the cause and treatment approach are often different. Dr. Borda can tell you exactly which one you're dealing with during your free exam.
Your First Visit: What to Expect
If you're coming in for a crossbite evaluation, here's what happens at your free exam:
Dr. Borda will take X-rays and photos to get a complete picture of the bite. She'll examine the teeth, jaw alignment, and facial symmetry, then sit down with you (or your child) and explain exactly what she sees — in plain language, not orthodontic jargon.
You'll get a clear treatment recommendation, a realistic timeline, and a complete cost breakdown with insurance and payment options before you leave.
There's no pressure to start same-day, and no one will chase you with follow-up sales calls.
Patients consistently tell us that Dr. Borda explains everything clearly and never makes them feel rushed. That's by design — she wants you to feel completely confident in your decision.
Schedule Your Free Exam
If you think you or your child may have a crossbite, the fastest way to know for sure is a quick evaluation with a board-certified orthodontist. At Islander Orthodontics, exams are always free, thorough, and zero-obligation.
You'll get straight answers about what's going on and what your options are.
Islander Orthodontics
Mercerdale Professional Center
3236 78th Ave SE #102, Mercer Island, WA 98040
Hours: Monday 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM | Tuesday–Friday 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Serving Mercer Island, Bellevue, Renton, Newcastle, Seattle, and the greater Eastside.
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What Our Patients Say
"I've had an amazing experience at Islander Orthodontics! The entire team is personable, attentive, and truly top-notch. They make every visit comfortable and easy, and you can tell..."
Carl V.
a month ago
"Dr. Borda and her staff are amazing! Always very friendly, communicative, and make you feel informed. I've been going to her clinic for about a year now, and I offer a genuinely hi..."
Tyler B.
2 months ago
"This is such a helpful and professional office & they work so great with kids. Dr. Borda is immensely kind & knowledgeable… And they have beautiful offices. Highly recommend Island..."
Olivia L.
3 months ago
Islander Orthodontics
Mercerdale Professional Center (lower level)
3236 78th Ave SE #102, Mercer Island, WA 98040