BACKGROUND Gingival recession can be defined as the apical shift of the marginal gingiva from its normal position on the crown of the tooth to levels on the root surface beyond the cemento-enamel junction. The aetiology of this condition is multifactorial, but can result from a traumatic occlusion. The long-term prognosis of teeth with localised gingival recession can be uncertain. Successful management of these cases may involve either orthodontic or periodontal treatment in isolation or in combination. OBJECTIVE To describe two patients in which localised gingival recession associated with anterior crossbites were corrected with orthodontic appliances. METHODS A 2 x 4 appliance and an upper removable appliance were used to correct the crossbites. RESULTS Correction of the anterior crossbites resulted in a clinical improvement of the gingival recession. The aetiology and management of localised gingival recession is discussed. CONCLUSIONS Simple orthodontic appliances can be used to provide interceptive treatment to correct localised crossbite and enhance the overall long-term prognosis of the lower incisors. To achieve optimal results multidisciplinary involvement is recommended.