Malocclusion: Understanding Bite Issues And Treatment Solutions

Harmful oral habits such as finger sucking or tongue thrusting can also cause bite problems, as well as the drifting of teeth into the unrestored spaces left by dental extractions or tooth loss. Sometimes, teeth develop in the jawbone facing in directions that prevent them from erupting at all. These teeth are referred to as impacted.

Both genetic and environmental factors contribute to the development of a malocclusion. Injuries that cause a misalignment of the jaws and diseases such as oral tumors can also play a role in changing the occlusion.

In children, most problems involving the alignment of the teeth and the growth of the jaws can be detected by the time they are in first or second grade. That is why the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children have a checkup with an orthodontic specialist no later than age 7.

For children, most orthodontic treatment begins between the ages of 9 and 14. However, earlier interceptive care is sometimes required at a younger age. Likewise, in cases of significant problems involving jaw relationships, orthodontic care may involve treatment throughout growth and development.

It is important to note that a malocclusion can be treated at any age. Today, greater numbers of adults are actively seeking treatment for either crooked teeth or jaw problems that have bothered them since childhood, as well as to address teeth that have shifted over time due to extractions, habits, or abnormal bite patterns.

Types of Malocclusions

While malocclusions can be observed with a clinical exam, a more comprehensive assessment is required to make a complete diagnosis and to develop the most appropriate plan of care.

Malocclusions typically fall into three major types based on the kinds of discrepancies in alignment and bite that are present. They can be due to issues of dental alignment, skeletal jaw disharmonies, or even a combination of both problems.

• Class I: This is the most common type of malocclusion and is characterized by a normal bite with problems of tooth alignment.
• Class II: This malocclusion is characterized by an "overbite," where the top teeth are positioned ahead of the bottom teeth and demonstrate a more extensive overlap.
• Class III: This malocclusion is characterized by an "underbite" or mandibular prognathism, causing the lower jaw and anterior teeth to be in front of the upper teeth.

While most malocclusions will respond to the appropriate orthodontic treatment, some require a combination of orthodontic treatment and orthognathic surgery to improve skeletal jaw relationships.