Transverse Discrepancy in Orthodontics

Crossbite is defined - 'a transverse discrepancy in tooth relationship' - British Glossary of Dental Terms 1Prevalence Rate: 11. Foster et al reports that crossbites affects 8-16% of the population2. Negligible difference between race andgender3. 80% linked to mandibular displacement Crossbite of buccal occlusion is manifested as transverse dimension that primarily accounts to posterior occlusion along with any discrepancy. Itis interrelated to vertical and sagittal dimensions and accordingly may have skeletal/dental or both components. It will clinically present as a bilateral or unilateral crossbite involving single or multiple teeth. Primary and mixed-dentition stages are where transverse problems of maxillary and mandibular arches occur most frequently. Transverse discrepancy does not correct by itself and studies have shown that correction of transverse discrepancy in early phase of mixeddentition is beneficial for patient in long run.Diagnosis and treatment planning of transverse discrepancies deserves more attention, as facial growth in the transverse dimension is completed first.