MALOCCLUSION

Overview

Teeth which are not aligned, or which do not fit in proper relationship between the two jaws, constitute a malocclusion.

Causes
Malocclusion can be caused by hereditary or local factors.

• tooth and jaw size discrepancy - teeth which are larger than can be fitted in the jaw will result in crowding conversely, smaller teeth in a large jaw will result in gaps between the teeth
• discrepancy in size or relationship of upper and lower jaw - this results in protrusion of either jaw or open or deep bites.
• abnormally shaped teeth
• oral habits such as thumb sucking or tongue thrusting
• cleft lip/palate
• as part of a syndrome

Symptoms
Most of us have some imperfection in our occlusion. Minor imperfections do not impair function and it is subjective whether they impair aesthetics. However moderate to severe malocclusions can

• impair functions like chewing, and keeping the mouth closed
• affect facial appearance
• affect speech

Risk factors
You may be at risk of a malocclusion if you have

• oral habits like thumb sucking
• hereditary factors (see causes)
• early loss of milk teeth eg from extractions due to decay
• loss of permanent teeth which are not replaced

Treatment
Orthodontics is the art and science of correcting malocclusion. Some malocclusions require a multidisciplinary approach, whereby orthodontic and oral surgical specialties are required to align teeth, but correct jaw relationships as well. (Orthonagthic surgery)