Orthodontics helps to improve bad and irregular bite problems, which are medically known as malocclusions. This occurs as a result of tooth and/or jaw misalignment.
When you have malocclusion, it generally affects the way you speak, smile, bite and your overall appearance. It is common for some people to also be self-conscious when they have malocclusion.
What is a Malocclusion?
The root word of malocclusion is “occlusion,” which refers to the meeting of your teeth or bite. It is how your teeth occlude or come together. “Mal” is a Latin word means incorrect or bad, and thus malocclusion is simply defined as an incorrect bite or bad bite.
Types of Malocclusion
A Classification system was made to define the different major types of malocclusion. There are three main categories of malocclusion and these are Class I, II, III.
Class I: Proper front,-back position of both lower and upper teeth but the malocclusion problems result from misalignment, crowding, cross-bite, spacing and rotated teeth.
Class II: Commonly known as an overbite. It is when the upper teeth are far ahead of the lower teeth.
Class III: Widely known as an underbite or the lower teeth are far ahead of the upper teeth.
Treatment
If you think you have a malocclusion or bite problem, the first thing you need to do is visit an orthodontist. Your orthodontist will assess and examine your teeth and bite issues. Then, they will recommend an ideal treatment plan, which can involve orthodontic treatment such as braces or Invisalign.
To learn more about treating malocclusions, visit our orthodontic office in Unionville. We look forward to helping you achieve your best smile!
– The Unionville Orthodontics Team
