Whenever you smile, you want to be able to feel confident about yourself. In many cases however, people are not born with perfectly aligned teeth. It is quite common to have teeth that are not spaced correctly, or even to have a malocclusion. The term refers to the misalignment of the upper and lower jaw while biting or chewing. It has been found that most cases of malocclusion are hereditary but there are some cases that result from thumb sucking, extra teeth, impacted or lost teeth, and even dental procedures such as crowns or fillings.
• Neutrocclusion This form of dental misalignment is the most commonly diagnosed, and results in a mostly normal bite. Typically the upper teeth will slightly overlap the lower teeth, but the first upper molar will correctly rest within the groove of the first lower molar. There may be noticeable spacing, crowding, or eruption complications with the rest of the teeth. A patient that is diagnosed with Class 1 malocclusion will have no difficulties in chewing or speaking properly.
• Distocclusion Is when the upper teeth to severely overlap the lower teeth, and upper molars may actually rest in front of their lower counterparts. In severe cases, the front bottom teeth may rest on the hard palate behind the upper teeth, which can lead to pain and complications with chewing and speaking.
• Mesiocclusion When the lower teeth and or jaw extend past the upper teeth, it is known as mesiocclusion. This can occur when a person has a larger lower jaw, or a short upper one. This type of occlusion can be dangerous if the upper incisors cut into the gingival tissue of the lower jaw when masticating or during sleep.
Consultation Orthodontic treatment can help rectify malocclusions and if you feel that your bite is not perfect and your teeth are crowded or protruding, advice and treatment from an orthodontist can improve the condition of your teeth. Contact us today 203-513-2014.