You may not be familiar with the word “malocclusion” but chances are you know at least one person who has dealt with one. In fact, you may have dealt with one yourself. A malocclusion is an imperfect positioning of the teeth when the jaw is closed. There are three main types of malocclusions. Luckily, they can all be treated by various orthodontic measures. Here are a few things to know about malocclusions:
Types of Malocclusions
There are three main types of malocclusions. The first is a Class I malocclusion, which occurs when the upper teeth stick out over the lower teeth. You may have heard this called an overlap. In these cases, you can see the teeth angle toward the tongue or narrow arches with upper teeth sticking out and lower teeth leaning in toward the tongue.
A Class II malocclusion occurs when the upper teeth stick out over the lower teeth, which affects the overall bite alignment. This is more commonly known as an overbite. This can involve the upper teeth angling toward the lips or the upper central incisors angling toward the tongue. This will almost certainly require orthodontic intervention at some level.
In the case of a Class III malocclusion, lower teeth stick out further than the upper teeth, which creates an underbite or a crossbite. These are grouped into three different types. In the first, the alignment is fine, but there is an abnormal arch shape. The second features lower front teeth leaning toward the tongue. Meanwhile, the third involves an underdeveloped upper arch where the upper front teeth lean toward the tongue.
How to Treat Malocclusions
Malocclusions can be treated using various orthodontic means. The most common treatment for this issue is putting traditional braces on teeth that will gently pull them into alignment over time using brackets and wires. Another treatment is clear aligners, such as Invisalign, which consist of a series of trays that also work to gradually pull teeth into alignment. Capital Dental Group treats more Invisalign cases than any general dentist in Kern County!
If you believe you have a malocclusion you need treated, Capital Dental Group in Bakersfield, CA is the place to go. We provide FREE consultations and in-house financing and will work with you to find the right treatment. Give us a call at 661-861-8000 to schedule an appointment today!