You may have heard of the term malocclusion from your dentist or another healthcare professional, but few of us actually have a good idea of what it is. In fact, malocclusion is an umbrella term for certain ways in which teeth are aligned – or, more properly, misaligned – in the mouth. Therefore, you need not jump to any false conclusions about potential treatments for malocclusion if you are diagnosed with it. The term covers a variety of issues. In the main, they are:
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Open bite
- Cross bite
- Twisted teeth
- Crowded teeth
Given that malocclusion relates to the misalignment of teeth, it follows that occlusion is a dental term which simply means alignment. According to dental professionals, a good occlusion occurs when the individual teeth are facing the right way without any undesirable twisting or rotation. The teeth in the upper set ought to overlap the teeth of the lower jaw slightly. Ideally, this will be so that the pointed parts of the molars – the chewing teeth at the back of the mouth – sit neatly into the recesses of the facing set of molars.
Young children can develop malocclusion from an otherwise healthy mouth by sucking on dummies for prolonged periods.
Problems Associated With Malocclusion
Teeth which don't conform to a good occlusion can cause problems associated with digestive health. Indeed, bacteria can be more prevalent in the mouths of people with the condition, too. This is because food may sit in a mouth with malocclusion longer than is desirable, especially when items become trapped between teeth.
The improper alignment of teeth can also create cosmetic problems, particularly when the issue is noticeable with the front-facing incisors. In more serious cases, it can lead to the inside of the cheeks and tongue being bitten more than is usual. Discomfort when eating is also a problem that people with the condition report. Finally, some speech disorders, such as talking with a lisp, are known to have their roots in malocclusion.
Treatment for Malocclusion
Handling malocclusion is done in several ways these days. Wires and plates are sometimes used to offer the jaw greater stability in severe cases, but most people with the condition will be able to have corrective braces fitted without the need for anything more. Where overcrowding is an issue, teeth may be removed or surgery may be considered if the jawbone needs to be reshaped. Capping and bonding teeth is also sometimes carried out to deal with malocclusion.
