Malocclusion is a condition that affects the way your teeth fit together. The term “Malocclusion” is used to describe a number of different dental problems that basically mean “bad bite.” It can cause problems with biting, chewing, and swallowing. Malocclusion can also lead to oral health problems, such as tooth decay and gum disease. In this blog post, we will discuss what malocclusion is, and how it can affect your oral health. We will also provide tips for preventing oral health problems caused by malocclusion.
Types and Classes of Malocclusion
Malocclusion occurs when the top and bottom teeth do not fit together properly. There are several different types of malocclusion, including:
-Underbite: when the lower jaw extends beyond the upper jaw
-Overbite: when the upper jaw extends beyond the lower jaw
-Crossbite: when one or more of the top teeth bite inside of the bottom teeth
-Open Bite: when there is a space between the top and bottom teeth
When malocclusion is diagnosed, it is differentiated by both its type and severity. There are three classes used to describe the severity of malocclusion, including:
-Class I: the most common type of malocclusion. It is characterized by upper and lower molars that are aligned, but the other teeth are improperly spaced.
-Class II: this type of malocclusion is characterized by an overbite that causes the upper teeth to severely overlap the lower teeth. This can be seen in individuals with a small lower jaw.
-Class III: this type of malocclusion is characterized by an underbite that causes the lower teeth to severely overlap the upper teeth. This can be seen in individuals with a large lower jaw.
How Malocclusion Affects Oral Health
Malocclusion can cause a number of oral health problems, including:
Tooth Decay
When teeth do not fit together properly, it can be difficult to clean all the surfaces of the teeth. This can lead to tooth decay and cavities.
Gum Disease
When plaque and bacteria are allowed to build up on the teeth, it can cause gum disease. Gum disease is a serious infection that can lead to tooth loss.
TMJ Disorder
TMJ disorder is a condition that affects the temporomandibular joint, which is the joint that connects the jawbone to the skull. TMJ disorder can cause pain in the jaw, neck, and shoulders. TMJ disorder can also cause headaches and can also lead to problems with chewing and swallowing. Malocclusion can cause TMJ disorder since the jaw is improperly aligned and excess strain is placed on the joint.
Facial Asymmetry
Malocclusion can also cause facial asymmetry, which is when the face is not symmetrical. This can be caused by uneven growth of the skull bones or jawbones. Additionally, malocclusion can affect your side profile by making your chin look weak.
In Conclusion
Malocclusion is an improper alignment of the bite that is classified by type and severity. Untreated malocclusion can have a negative impact on your oral health and can lead to a variety of dental problems. It is important to schedule an appointment with our team at the office if you believe that you may be experiencing any symptoms associated with malocclusion. We will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth in order to diagnose the issue properly and provide treatment options to restore proper bite function while preventing future issues caused by malocclusion.
