Overview

Malocclusion describes misalignment between upper and lower teeth when the jaw is closed. When teeth don't meet correctly, abnormal forces are placed on teeth, muscles, and joints — causing pain, wear, and increased dental problems over time. Malocclusion is extremely common and varies widely in severity from minor aesthetic concerns to significant functional problems.

Symptoms

• Overbite: upper front teeth cover too much of the lower front teeth (deep bite)
• Underbite: lower front teeth protrude in front of upper teeth
• Crossbite: upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth
• Open bite: upper and lower teeth don't meet when mouth is closed
• Overjet: upper front teeth protrude significantly forward
• Difficulty chewing, speech problems, jaw pain, and TMJ symptoms

Causes & Risk Factors

• Genetics: jaw and tooth sizes are largely inherited
• Childhood habits: prolonged thumb sucking, dummy use, or mouth breathing
• Early loss of baby teeth causing space loss and shifting
• Dental anomalies: missing teeth, extra teeth, impacted teeth
• Cleft lip and palate; jaw injuries

Complications

• Premature or abnormal tooth wear from incorrect bite forces
• TMJ disorder: jaw joint pain, clicking, and headaches
• Increased decay and gum disease from crowding and difficulty cleaning
• Sleep-disordered breathing if jaw position obstructs the airway

Diagnosis

Orthodontic assessment includes clinical exam, study models, photographs, OPG, and cephalometric X-ray. CBCT for severe skeletal cases. Severity classified using Angle's classification to distinguish dental from skeletal causes.

Treatment

• Orthodontic treatment: fixed braces or clear aligners for dental malocclusion
• Functional appliances in growing children to guide jaw development
• Orthognathic (jaw) surgery combined with orthodontics for severe skeletal malocclusion in adults
• Interceptive treatment in children: early removal of obstructive teeth or habit-breaking appliances

Prevention

• Discourage thumb sucking and dummy use after age 3
• Encourage nasal breathing; treat mouth breathing causes early
• Preserve baby teeth space; use space maintainers after early extraction
• First orthodontic assessment recommended at age 7

Ready to take the next step? Book a consultation today