Examples of Malocclusion
Malocclusion
A malocclusion is the technical term used in dentistry to describe misaligned teeth and bite. A bad bite occurs when the teeth and jaws do not line up properly. Depending on the severity of the issue, it can cause serious orthodontic issues which are summarized below:
- Crooked or crowded teeth
- Teeth which protrude
- Gum issues
- Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ)
- Headaches
- Issues with sleep and sleep disorders
- Cosmetic issues
- Challenges with eating or speaking
There are various types of malocclusions which a patient can experience. The severity of the issue can range from mild with no symptoms to severe and symptomatic or painful. Below is a summary of different kinds of malocclusions, common symptoms, and treatment options
Malocclusion Classes
There are three different types of malocclusions which includes the following:
- Class 1: This is the most common type of malocclusion. The upper teeth overlap the lower teeth slightly, but the bite is otherwise normal. Treatment may or may not be required.
- Class 2: This results in the overlap of the upper teeth with the lower jaw and teeth. It results in an overbite which often requires treatment.
- Class 3: This class of malocclusion results in the lower jaw and teeth overlapping with the upper jaw and teeth. This causes an underbite which also requires treatment in many cases.
Examples of Malocclusions
A summary of different types of malocclusions is listed below. These examples of malocclusions include some of the most common types of misalignment.
Overbite
A perfect bite is incredibly rare. It is actually quite common for patients to have a slight overlap of the lower front teeth which fall behind the upper teeth. Issues associated with a significant overbite can include the front teeth biting down onto the gums or the lower teeth biting into the roof of the mouth.
Underbite
Patients who have lower front teeth which are positioned more forward compared to the upper front teeth have an underbite. Another term used to describe this condition is an anterior crossbite.
Overcrowding
One of the most common types of orthodontic conditions is overcrowding. This is typically the biggest reason an adult receives orthodontic treatment as well. In most cases, overcrowding is the result of not having enough space in the mouth. This results in crooked or overlapping teeth.
Crossbite
Crossbites occur when the upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth. This can occur on one or both sides of the jaw. Both the front and back teeth can be affected.
Spacing
Spacing is another common issue. Common causes of a malocclusion caused by spacing include missing teeth, smaller than normal teeth, tongue thrusting, and thumb sucking for prolonged periods. A spacing issue impacts at least two teeth and can result in crowding. This can negatively impact how the permanent teeth erupt in the mouth as well.
Diastema
Another term for a diastema is gap teeth and occur where there is significant space between two teeth. This is commonly found in two upper front teeth.
Open Bite
In cases of an open bite, the front teeth fail to overlap with the lower teeth. When the upper and lower front teeth do not overlap, there is an opening which goes directly into the mouth. An open bite impacting the front teeth is called an anterior open bite. The issue can also occur on either side of the mouth.
The above list of malocclusions are simply examples of the most common malocclusions. Patients who are concerned with a malocclusion, or those who are concerned that their child has a malocclusion, should call the office for a consultation. The team can determine the type of malocclusion and discuss treatment options.