Having problems with chewing or teeth rustling? Do you experience functional oral imbalance? As common as they may be, problems with dental occlusion should not be taken lightly. Malocclusion, in addition to chewing problems, can also lead to physiological and psychological consequences. 

Ankeny dental care offers a comprehensive approach to malocclusion management to enhance your oral health and physical wellness.  

What is dental malocclusion?

Dental malocclusion is characterized by an imperfect dentition that disturbs the normal assembly of the upper teeth with the lower ones, hindering the muscular function of the jaw. 

Causes

The causes of malocclusion are varied. It can be attributed to genetic predisposition, but there could be other leading causes of it. These include:

• Loss of teeth
• Prolonged use of a pacifier
• Bottle feeding 
• Thumb sucking
• Cleft lip and palate
• Injuries and trauma
• Tumors and cysts
• Impacted tooth 
• Airway obstruction due to enlarged adenoids 

How is malocclusion classified?  

There are many different forms of malocclusion, which dentists divide into three classes, namely:

Class I

• The upper teeth overlap with the lower teeth. 
  • Type I: The teeth lean towards the tongue
  • Type II: The lower teeth are angled towards the tongue, and the upper teeth project out in narrow arches
  • Type III: The upper teeth are crowded and lean towards the tongue 

Class II

• This is the same as class I but more severe and can alter your bite. 
  • Division I: The upper teeth lean toward the lips
  • Division II: The upper central incisors lean toward the tongue

Class III

• It is a type of underbite where the lower teeth project out over the upper teeth
  • Type I: The teeth form an abnormally shaped arch
  • Type II: The lower front teeth are angled towards the tongue 
  • Type III: The upper arch is abnormal, and the upper teeth are angled toward the tongue

What are the clinical features of malocclusion?

The most striking features of malocclusion are as follows:

• Misaligned teeth 
• Chewing and speech problems
• Frequent tongue or cheek-biting
• Increased risk of caries
• Headaches and facial pain due to excess pressure on the TMJ (temporomandibular joint)

How do dentists treat malocclusion?

Dentists often treat malocclusion through specially designed dental appliances that are either fixed or removable. These are worn for specified durations, exerting gentle yet firm pressure on the teeth to alter their position. These include:

• Fixed multibracket braces: These are brackets fixed to the tooth surface and connected by an archwire. 

• Removable devices: Retainers, palate expanders, and headgear are common examples. 

• Invisalign: These are clear, flexible, and removable orthodontic braces. 

Malocclusion is common, but it can be treated effectively. A normal occlusion is crucial to regain your beautiful smile and confidence.