Malocclusion is a common dental problem worldwide that can have a deteriorating impact on your oral health and aesthetics. Improper bite can be classified into different types that have been discussed further.
Malocclusion can be effectively treated through braces in Los Gatos by specialized orthodontists. These treatments help rehabilitate and improve your oral form and health, in addition to rejuvenating facial aesthetics.
What is malocclusion?
Malocclusion, popularly known as “poor bites,” is one of the common dental problems suffered by millions of different age groups. It is characterized by an incorrect relationship between the maxillary (upper jaw) and the mandibular (lower jaw) teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to other complications like overbite, underbite, crossbite, and overcrowding.
What are the types of malocclusion?
There are three types of malocclusion, namely:
Class I
- This is characterized by an overlap of the upper teeth over the lower teeth.
- Class I malocclusion has subcategories, including:
- Type I: Your teeth lean towards the tongue
- Type II: Your lower teeth are angled towards the tongue, and upper teeth project out in narrow arches
- Type III: Your 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.
- Subcategories include:
- Division I: Your upper teeth lean toward the lips
- Division II: Your upper central incisors (front teeth) lean toward the tongue
Class III
- This is a type of underbite where the lower teeth project out over the upper teeth
- Subcategories include:
- Type I: Your teeth form an abnormally shaped arch
- Type II: Your 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 causes malocclusion?
Malocclusion can be caused due to several reasons, such as:
- Genetic predisposition
- Tooth loss
- Prolonged use of a pacifier
- Bottle feeding
- Chronic thumb sucking
- Cleft lip and palate
- Injuries and trauma
- Oral tumors
- Impacted teeth
- Poor oral care
- Airway obstruction due to enlarged adenoids
How do dentists treat malocclusion?
Orthodontists use a series of oral appliances to help correct different types of malocclusion. These include:
Fixed multibracket braces
- These are brackets that are fixed to the tooth surface using dental cement.
- It consists of an archwire that connects each bracket
Removable appliances
- Retainers, palate expanders, and headgear are common examples.
Invisalign
- These are clear and removable dental braces that aesthetically correct malocclusion.
Malocclusion should not be ignored. Consult your dentist for further evaluation and management. It’s never too late to get treated for malocclusion since if left untreated, it can have multiple consequences. This can only worsen your condition and negatively impact your oral health and overall wellness.
