The word malocclusion is rooted in Latin, and the two roots “mal” and “occlusion” literally mean “bad” and “bite.” Malocclusion is a bad bite, a bite that is improperly aligned. Having a properly aligned bite means that the molars of the upper and lower ridges of your teeth fit together. If the bite is misaligned, the teeth do not properly line up together. This can lead to an increased risk of TMJ disorder, tooth damage, and more. If you live in Fort Worth, Texas, talk to the team at Lake Country Orthodontics about malocclusion and your bite.
Why Does It Happen?
Malocclusion can be caused by several different things. Some can be issues from birth, such as a variance of the upper and lower jaw size or a mismatch in the size of the jaw and the teeth. Prolonged use of bottles, sucking of a thumb or a pacifier can also create developmental problems for the jaw that can lead to malocclusion.
Classes of Malocclusion
For a healthy, properly aligned bite (occlusion), the cusp of the upper first molar should rest in the grooves of the lower first molar below it. If this tooth pair lines up, the rest of the smile should also line up properly. Any variation from this setting is deemed a bad bite and is classified in three different malocclusion classifications: Class 1: Neutrocclusion, Class 2: Distocclusion, and Class 3: Mesiocclusion. Class 1 can be normal as it is where the top teeth overlap above the lower teeth. Class 2 is a severe overbite where the top teeth far overlap the bottom teeth. The front teeth can be protruded in this class. Class 3 is when the bottom teeth jut out further than the upper teeth. Along with these three classes of malocclusion, there are other types of alignment issues and problems that can occur in a smile.
How Is It Treated?
Talk to Dr. Cabal about treating an improperly aligned bite. To schedule your consultation call Lake Country Orthodontics at (817) 236-7846. Located in Ft. Worth, TX, our office proudly serves patients who live in White Settlement, North Ft. Worth, Springtown, Rome, Haslet, Azle, Saginaw, and all surrounding communities.
