Malocclusion (Misaligned Bite)
Learn what it means to have a Malocclusion and the various types and classification of malocclusion you may be dealing with.
Malocclusion is a big word for a misalignment of your jaw and teeth that can be uncomfortable, cause you some self-consciousness, and even pain. The good news is, if you’re suffering from Malocclusion, we have the solutions and the explanation for what is going on.
What is malocclusion?
In the simplest form, malocclusion is a misaligned bite. This is when your teeth and your jaw are not lined up naturally. The misalignment causes stress on your mouth and any mouth movement will be more difficult and it could be challenging to do basic activities such as eating and speaking comfortably. There is no need to worry as malocclusions are treatable and there are different options based on the type of malocclusion you have been diagnosed with.
Classes of malocclusions
Class 3 malocclusion
So let’s talk about class three malocclusion. This is when your lower teeth are sticking out past the upper teeth, creating a severe underbite. In some cases, it can result in a crossbite that can have a series of overlapping upper and lower teeth. This malocclusion has 3 different types within its class.
Type I Malocclusion: Your teeth alignment is good, but your arch shape is abnormal.
Type II Malocclusion: Your teeth alignment is fine, but your lower front teeth have a lean in the direction of your tongue.
Type III Malocclusion: Your upper arch is underdeveloped. Your lower teeth alignment is good, but your upper front teeth have a lean in the direction of your tongue.
Class 2 Malocclusion
A Class two malocclusion is similar to class III but is flip-flopped. Class II is when your upper teeth stick out over the lower teeth, affecting your bite alignment, and creating an overbite. This is one of the more severe types of malocclusion, so orthodontic help will be recommended. Though it may take longer to fix the bite to a more natural state, you’re still able to get everything fixed up with the right appliances and approach to treatment.
Class 1 Malocclusion
Lastly, Class one malocclusion. This is where your upper teeth stick out over the lower teeth, (usually called an overlap), but the bite is pretty normal. There are a bunch of reasons why the upper teeth could overlap. Mainly from prolonged thumb-sucking or bottle use in childhood. Having an overlap could require you to get minor corrections with orthodontic appliances. Let’s look at the three types of Class I malocclusion.
Type I Malocclusion: Your teeth are angled toward the tongue.
Type II Malocclusion: Having narrow arches with the upper teeth sticking out, whilst the lower teeth are leaning in toward the tongue.
Type III Malocclusion: Your upper front teeth are angled toward your tongue and crowding is present.
Whether it’s a class one, two, or three or type I, II, or III within those classifications, the good news is there’s always a fix. With the right corrections, your smile will be better than ever. Make sure to see your dentist and see what’s right for you and your smile.