Malocclusion is a dental condition characterized by the misalignment of the teeth and/or incorrect relationship between the upper arch (maxilla) and lower arch (mandible).  Malocclusions are surprisingly common, so much so that the majority of individuals experience malocclusion to some degree.  This poor alignment is usually attributed to genetic factors and poor oral hygiene but may result from other factors in the early years.
Orthodontists, dentists who specialize in repairing tooth irregularity and disproportionate jaw relationships, generally treat moderate-to-severe malocclusion.

There are three main classifications of malocclusion:

• Class I – A patient has normal occlusion but there are spacing or overcrowding issues with the teeth and jaw.
• Class II – The malocclusion is an overbite wherein the upper teeth protrude further than the lower teeth.  Overbites occur when the anterior teeth protrude or when lateral teeth overlap the central teeth.
• Class III – The malocclusion is an underbite (sometimes called prognathism) wherein the lower teeth protrude further than the upper teeth.  Underbites usually occur because the maxillary bone is short or the jawbone is large.

Reasons for treating a malocclusion

Many patients feel that malocclusion treatment is simply an aesthetic endeavor.  In fact, severe malocclusions can not only lead to skeletal dissonance in the lower face (sometimes requiring jaw reconstruction), but also are associated with other dental issues.  Children and adult patients alike can seek treatment from an orthodontist for realignment procedures that give them a straight, stunning smile.

Here is an overview of the main reasons patients seek orthodontic treatment for a malocclusion:

• Reduce the risk of tooth decay – Malocclusions are often associated with uneven wear on the teeth which may lead to tooth decay and erosion.
• Improved oral hygiene – Malocclusions are sometimes caused by overcrowding.  The lack of proper spacing between teeth can make it incredibly difficult to completely clean the teeth and gums.
• Reduce the risk of TMJ – Orthodontists believe temporomandibular jaw syndrome (TMJ) is caused by malocclusion.  Symptoms associated with TMJ include headaches, facial pains, and grinding teeth are caused by extra pressure exerted on the temporomandibular joint.  By realigning the teeth, your orthodontist can reduce the pressure on this joint thereby effectively eliminating these symptoms.

How is malocclusion treated?

The primary treatment option for malocclusion is dental braces.  After a complete assessment including visual exam, panoramic x-rays, and model studies of bite impressions are conducted, your orthodontist will develop a treatment plan.  In some instances of malocclusion caused by overcrowding, tooth extraction may be required to create enough space for realignment. 
However, when a patient is experiencing an underbite, crossbite, or overbite, your orthodontist has a range of treatments and appliances available:

• Fixed multi-bracket braces – These dental braces require an arch-wire threaded through individual brackets affixed to each tooth.  The orthodontist can then gradually adjust the arch-wire to encourage the correct alignment of teeth.
• Removable devices – Retainers, headgear, and palate expanders are common examples of non-fixed dental braces that orthodontists use to treat malocclusion.  Retainers are especially useful for holding teeth in place while the jawbone grows around them.
• Invisalign® - Nearly invisible to the naked eye, Invisalign® dental aligners work similarly to dental braces without interfering in your daily activities while leaving the aesthetics of your smile intact.  Not all patients are candidates for this treatment.

If you have any questions about malocclusions, please contact our office.