Malocclusion meaning

Malocclusion is a misalignment of the teeth or incorrect relationship between the upper and lower dental arches.


Malocclusion definitions

Word backwards noisulccolam
Part of speech noun
Syllabic division ma-lo-clu-sion
Plural The plural of the word malocclusion is malocclusions.
Total letters 12
Vogais (4) a,o,u,i
Consonants (5) m,l,c,s,n

Malocclusion, a common dental issue, refers to the misalignment of the teeth or incorrect relation between the teeth of the two dental arches when they come together. This misalignment can lead to various problems, including difficulty in chewing, speech issues, and even affect the appearance of the face.

Types of Malocclusion

There are different types of Malocclusion, including Class I, Class II, and Class III. Class I malocclusion is the most common type, where the bite is normal, but the upper teeth slightly overlap the lower teeth. Class II malocclusion is known as retrognathism, where the upper teeth and jaw significantly overlap the lower teeth and jaw. Class III malocclusion, also called prognathism, is the opposite of Class II, where the lower teeth and jaw overlap the upper teeth and jaw.

Causes of Malocclusion

Malocclusion can be caused by various factors, including genetics, thumb-sucking, premature loss of baby teeth, accidents that result in misalignment of the jaw, and even tumors in the mouth or jaw. Habits such as tongue-thrusting can also contribute to malocclusion.

Treatment Options

Treatment for malocclusion depends on the severity of the condition. In some cases, no treatment may be necessary if the misalignment is minimal and doesn't cause any issues. However, if the malocclusion affects the function of the teeth or the appearance of the face, treatment may be required. Treatment options can include braces, aligners, surgery, or dental appliances to correct the alignment of the teeth and jaws.

It is essential to address malocclusion early to prevent further complications and improve overall oral health. Regular dental check-ups can help identify malocclusion early on, allowing for timely intervention and treatment. Consulting with a dentist or orthodontist is crucial in determining the best course of action for correcting malocclusion and achieving a healthy, functional smile.


Malocclusion Examples

  1. Orthodontic treatment can help correct malocclusion, improving the alignment of the teeth.
  2. Malocclusion can lead to difficulty chewing or speaking properly.
  3. Severe malocclusion may require surgery to correct the alignment of the jaw.
  4. Genetics can play a role in the development of malocclusion.
  5. Malocclusion can cause jaw pain or headaches in some individuals.
  6. Braces are commonly used to fix malocclusion and straighten teeth.
  7. Regular dental check-ups can help detect malocclusion early on.
  8. Untreated malocclusion can lead to tooth decay or gum disease.
  9. Malocclusion can affect a person's self-esteem due to the appearance of their smile.
  10. Proper orthodontic care can address malocclusion at any age.


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  • Updated 02/04/2024 - 16:40:51