Types of Malocclusion

Many people visit a dental clinic for their irregularly aligned teeth and unaesthetic smile. Poorly aligned or irregular teeth can lead to many dental and health problems. This condition of misaligned teeth is called malocclusion and requires you to visit a dental clinic for an orthodontic consultation.

What Are the Types of Malocclusion?

Malocclusion is a technical term for a very routine problem of improper bite or when your upper and lower teeth do not align properly with each other. Though it appears to be a cosmetic dental problem, the best dental specialist in Hyderabad will tell you how malocclusion can have more significant health implications. Here are some common types of malocclusions:

• Crowding: When there is a lack of space in the jaw, teeth overlap, making it difficult to brush and floss

• Spacing: When there is too much space for teeth or teeth are small, there may be spaces between teeth that are ideal for food to get stuck, increasing the risk of cavities.

• Open bite: When the upper front teeth fault overlaps with the lower front teeth, there is a gap in the bite. This is called an open bite.

• Overjet: When the upper front teeth overlap with the lower front teeth beyond the usual horizontal overlap, it causes speaking and chewing problems, sometimes even trauma to the lips.

• Overbite: Some amount of overlap of upper front teeth is normal. When in excess, it is called an overbite.

• Underbite: In some people, the lower front teeth are more forwardly placed than the upper front teeth, this is called an underbite.

• Crossbite: In the ideal scenario, your upper teeth overlap your lower teeth. But, when the reverse happens, it is called a crossbite. A crossbite can occur in the front or back teeth or both.

• Diastema: Sometimes, due to a thick lip attachment to the gums, there may be a gap seen between the upper two front teeth. This is called a diastema or a midline diastema.

• Rotation: When lost or missing teeth are not replaced in time, the teeth adjacent to the space bend or rotate. This comprises aesthetics as well as biting and chewing efficiency. 

What are the Symptoms of Malocclusion?

Symptoms of malocclusions include:

• Poor aesthetics
• Speech problems like lisp
• Improper chewing or discomfort when doing so
• Change in facial structure and strain on facial muscles
• Mouth breathing
• Frequent tongue and cheek bites

What Causes Malocclusions?

Malocclusions causes include:

• Genetics
• Tooth loss that hasn’t been replaced
• Habits like thumb-sucking and tongue-thrusting
• Bottle feeding
• Prolonged use of a pacifier
• Injuries or trauma

The treatment for your malocclusion involves removing the underlying cause and teeth straightening using dental braces.

When Do You Need to See a Doctor?

If you have misaligned or irregular teeth and wish to get them corrected, book your consultation with the best dentist in Hyderabad who specializes in orthodontics. Request an appointment at Apollo Dental, Hyderabad. Call  18001020288 to book an appointment. 

What Are the Possible Complications from Malocclusions?

Many people ignore malocclusions thinking it to be an aesthetic problem. However, untreated malocclusions can cause the following health complications:

• Difficulty in speaking
• Teeth grinding
• Early loss of baby teeth
• Tooth decay
• Gum disease
• Jaw bone disease
• Loss of permanent teeth
• Teeth sensitivity
• Pain and damage to the jaw joint

Can Malocclusion be Prevented?

Since malocclusions are usually genetic, we cannot prevent them. However, timely intervention can help in proper teeth alignment before malocclusion sets in. 

How are Malocclusions Treated? 

Treatment for malocclusions may include the following:

• Growth modification using appliances. This is used in children who are still growing. 
• Teeth braces or orthodontic braces
• Clear aligners
• Retainers

If you are looking for an orthodontist at your nearest dental clinic, visit us today! Request an appointment at Apollo Dental, Hyderabad. Call  18001020288 to book an appointment.

Conclusion

Malocclusions are more common than you think. Regular dental visits to the best dental clinic in Hyderabad can help spot this condition and provide appropriate treatment.