Malocclusion refers to the misalignment of teeth when the jaws close, altering how the teeth meet and the face looks. It is a frequent oral health concern with various classifications, each exhibiting specific characteristics. Identifying each type is essential for selecting the optimal treatment.

Neutral malocclusion is the most commonly observed type. In this scenario, the upper and lower jaws align properly, with the maxillary teeth covering the mandibular teeth as expected. However, spacing issues may exist, creating cosmetic concerns despite proper jaw positioning.

Overbite occurs when the lower teeth are positioned too far behind the upper ones. This often makes the chin look underdeveloped and is typically caused by a smaller lower jaw. Left untreated, it can cause difficulty with chewing.

Type III bite is the opposite pattern, where the lower teeth and jaw jut forward beyond the upper. This may result from an enlarged lower jaw. Individuals with this condition often face challenges with biting and chewing, and may develop diminished self-esteem.

In addition to the main types include anterior or posterior crossbite, where the biting relationship is inverted. This can occur in the front teeth and may lead to uneven wear patterns. Anterior open bite describes a condition where a vertical space remains between upper and lower incisors. This is frequently associated with tongue thrusting.

Overjet measures how far forward the top incisors extend beyond the bottom ones. A pronounced overjet increases susceptibility to chipping or fracture. Excessive vertical overlap occurs when the mandibular incisors contact the palate, potentially leading to discomfort during biting.

Malocclusions may stem from hereditary skeletal patterns, 表参道 歯科矯正 childhood habits like thumb sucking or pacifier use, post-injury growth disturbances, or abnormal tooth eruption. Early diagnosis, especially in children, enables preventative intervention. Therapeutic strategies may include braces, retainers, or, when growth is complete, jaw repositioning procedures.

Accurately diagnosing the malocclusion is the critical first step for successful correction. A licensed orthodontist can evaluate jaw alignment and design a tailored intervention based on individual anatomical needs. With early and appropriate care, nearly all bite issues are treatable, resulting in better oral health and a naturally aligned, appealing appearance.