Posterior Crossbite
A malocclusion in which one or more posterior maxillary teeth occlude lingual to the opposing mandibular teeth, indicating a transverse skeletal or dental discrepancy.
Full Definition
Posterior crossbite describes an abnormal transverse relationship in the posterior dental segments, where maxillary posterior teeth bite inside (lingual to) their mandibular counterparts. It may be unilateral or bilateral, and dental or skeletal in origin. Unilateral posterior crossbite is frequently associated with a mandibular lateral shift, which must be documented carefully in clinical notes. Editors must differentiate posterior crossbite from anterior crossbite (which involves front teeth) and from scissor bite (the reverse relationship, also called buccal crossbite). The term should always include the modifier 'posterior' in full, rather than being shortened to 'crossbite' alone where ambiguity exists.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify 'anterior' or 'posterior' when the context is not explicit. Distinguish from scissor bite (reverse relationship).
In Context
- "A unilateral posterior crossbite with associated mandibular shift was recorded in the initial examination notes." — Clinical examination record
- "The author used 'crossbite' throughout without specifying anterior or posterior; the editor inserted clarifying modifiers." — Manuscript editing note