The Dangers of Malocclusion Going Unaddressed

The Dangers of Malocclusion Going Unaddressed Crowded teeth, misaligned teeth, overbites, and under bites are just some of the alternative names for malocclusion. Ideally, all the upper teeth will fit slightly over the lower teeth for proper occlusion (alignment of the teeth) to occur. Malocclusion is often inherited, there are other causes:

 

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Childhood habits like thumb sucking, pacifier use beyond 3 years of age, and prolonged use of a bottle.

• Extra teeth, lost teeth, impacted teeth, or abnormally shaped teeth.

• Ill-fitting dental filling, crowns, retainers, or braces.

• Sever injury causing the misalignment or the jaw.

• Tumors in the mouth or jaw.

Different Classification and Symptoms of Malocclusion

Classifications: 

Class 1: The most common classification where the bite is normal, but the upper teeth slightly overlaps the lower teeth.

Class 2: Also called retognathism or overbite, where the upper jaw and teeth severely overlaps the lower teeth.

Class 3: Commonly referred to as prognathism or underbite, where the lower jaw juts forward, which causes the lower jaw to overlap the upper jaw and teeth.

Symptoms:

• Abnormal alignment of teeth

• Abnormal appearance of face

• Discomfort or difficulty while biting or chewing

• Although rare, speech difficulties like lisps can develop

Treatment Options

A very few number of people have perfect teeth, but most are fortunate enough to have minor problems that do not need treatment. Malocclusion on the other hand is the most common reason to call in an orthodontist. By getting moderate or severe malocclusion addressed by your dentist in Kirkland, WA the patient’s teeth are easier to clean. This lessens the risk of tooth decay and periodontal diseases. The treatment also eliminates the strain on teeth, jaws, and muscles, which will lessen the symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorders. Don’t let teeth misalignment get in the way of your health; address the situation as soon as possible.