Malocclusion refers to an improper bite relationship or a dysfunction in how the teeth meet when the jaws close. It is a frequently encountered oral health problem that can affect not only the appearance of a person’s smile but also their ability to chew, their pronunciation ability, and 鐘ヶ淵 歯科矯正 their ability to clean teeth effectively.
Class I malocclusion is the predominant category. In this case, the upper and lower teeth meet as intended, meaning the maxillary teeth cover the mandibular teeth appropriately. However, other dental irregularities may exist like dental congestion, spacing, or twisted incisors. Even though the skeletal relationship is normal, these orthodontic anomalies can hinder proper brushing and flossing and promote bacterial accumulation.
Type II malocclusion occurs when the upper arch is positioned too far ahead of the lower. This can create a retruded mandibular profile. It is frequently inherited but can also be induced by oral behaviors such as tongue thrusting. People with this type may experience difficulty biting into food or encounter chronic facial muscular strain.
Type III malocclusion is the reverse pattern of Class II. Here, the lower teeth and jaw jut forward. This can lead to difficulty grinding food, articulation disorders, and uneven facial development. It is usually caused by genetic factors or atypical bone maturation.
Buccal or Lingual Misalignment is another type where upper molars or incisors are inside the lower arch when the jaws are closed. This can occur in the front teeth (anterior crossbite) or the molars and premolars. A crossbite can lead to excessive attrition, receding gingiva, and temporomandibular joint strain if left untreated.
Anterior Open Bite is characterized by a vertical separation of anterior teeth when the back teeth are biting together. This can reduce chewing efficiency and cause articulation disturbances. Open bites are often triggered by digit sucking, pushing the tongue against teeth, or extended bottle feeding.
Overjet is sometimes incorrectly interchanged with overbite, but it specifically refers to the anterior-posterior gap of incisors. When this distance is excessive, the front teeth appear jutted forward, raising vulnerability to trauma.
Each type of malocclusion has different implications for oral health and function. Early detection and intervention, especially in children, can avoid complex dental complications. Corrective appliances like aligners, or maxillofacial correction, can realign the dental arches. Regular dental checkups and initial orthodontic screenings are essential for early detection and determining the best course of action.
