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Topic Overview
What is malocclusion?
Malocclusion is an improper fit and alignment of the teeth and jaws. It is often referred to as having crooked teeth or a "poor bite."
What causes malocclusion?
Malocclusion may be caused by:
- Inherited traits, such as jaw size and tooth size, that may be mismatched. For example, a person can inherit large teeth and a small jaw.
- Oral habits, such as thumb-sucking or pacifier use.
- Tooth loss.
What are the symptoms of malocclusion?
The most obvious sign of malocclusion is crooked or protruding teeth. Malocclusion can range from mild to severe. For some people, the condition is so severe that they cannot eat or speak properly. In most people, however, a poor bite does not cause such functional problems. Rather, most cases of malocclusion pose a cosmetic concern.
How is malocclusion diagnosed?
A dentist typically looks for developing malocclusion during routine dental visits. If a malocclusion seems to be developing, the dentist will then recommend an orthodontic evaluation.
An orthodontist will:
- Take a medical and dental history.
- Conduct a clinical exam.
- Take dental and facial X-rays.
- Photograph the face and teeth.
- Create a plaster model of the teeth.
What is orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontic treatment is a method of correcting malocclusion by moving teeth mechanically using mild force through orthodontic appliances (braces). Orthodontic treatment can improve the function and appearance of the teeth and jaws.
What is the treatment for malocclusion?
During the childhood and early teen years, orthodontists use early growth modification techniques to reform the jaws. Orthodontists may remove (extract) selected teeth and may use fixed or removable appliances to create a proper bite (occlusion).
In adults, treatment with braces can straighten the teeth to camouflage a jaw problem, but any restructuring of the jawbone must be done with surgery, usually in combination with orthodontic treatment.
