What is Malocclusion?

Did you know the way your teeth join when you close your mouth impacts your oral health? This alignment, called occlusion, varies by tooth size, shape, and jaw position. When teeth or jaws don’t align properly, it leads to malocclusion, or a “bad bite.

Malocclusion can result from crowded teeth, crooked placement, or mismatched jaws. If it's left untreated, it may cause teeth wearing, gum infection, and challenges in chewing or speaking too. Types include:

• Crossbite: Upper teeth fit inside lower teeth.
• Open bite: Front teeth do not meet.
• Overbite: Upper teeth overlap lower teeth.
• Overjet: Upper teeth stick out.
• Underbite: Lower teeth extend beyond upper teeth.

Malocclusion affects 56% of the population worldwide, making early evaluation crucial for oral health. In this blog, we’ll explore malocclusion’s causes, its impact on teeth alignment, and available treatment options for its correction.

Common Causes of Malocclusion

While only 8% of malocclusion cases have a clear cause, the remaining 92% have an unknown origin, likely influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

The common causes of malocclusion of teeth include:

• Genetics: Inherited traits such as a misaligned jaw or irregular tooth size can increase the risk of malocclusion.
• Mismatch in Size: A small jaw for large teeth can lead to crowding or gaps.
• Thumb Sucking: Prolonged thumb sucking can shift teeth and jaw alignment.
• Prolonged Dummy Use: Extended use of a pacifier after 3 years can misalign teeth and jaws.
• Injuries: Trauma or injury to the mouth can result in jaw misalignment.
• Abnormal Teeth: Unusually shaped or impacted teeth can cause malocclusion.
• Bruxism: Teeth grinding can lead to misalignment over time.

While the causes of malocclusion vary, early identification and intervention can help correct misalignments and prevent further oral health problems.

The Impact of Malocclusion on Oral Health, Function, Appearance and Confidence

Malocclusion, when left untreated, can significantly affect oral health, functionality, appearance, and confidence in various ways.

Oral Health: Malocclusion can lead to tooth decay and an increased risk of cavities due to overcrowded teeth that trap food and make it difficult to clean between them affecting your oral hygiene. This can also contribute to plaque buildup, potentially causing gum infection.1 In addition, when you have a malocclusion, it may result in impaction of your teeth, jaw issues or even tooth loss.

Function: When you have malocclusion like a scissor bite/crossbite, your teeth don’t align properly, and you may experience difficulties in chewing and some alteration in speech as well. It may also cause jaw pain or discomfort, further affecting daily activities.

Appearance: Malocclusion can alter facial symmetry and affect the overall look of the face. Teeth that protrude or are unevenly aligned can make individuals feel self-conscious about their smile. This can make them feel low in their self-esteem and they may be influenced by how they are perceived by others.

Confidence: The aesthetic and functional impact of malocclusion can lead to a lack of confidence, especially in younger patients. Concerns about how they are viewed by others can create stress and affect their social interactions and emotional well-being.

Treatment Options for Malocclusion: From Braces, Aligners to Surgery

Malocclusion, or misaligned teeth, can be corrected through various treatment options depending on the severity of the condition.

For treating malocclusion, braces have been used traditionally. They are made of metal brackets which attach to the teeth and an arch wire connects them to the teeth. As the arch wire is tightened, it applies pressure on the teeth, gradually moving them into proper alignment. Although effective, braces can be uncomfortable, require regular adjustments, and are highly visible.

But things have improved now with teeth aligners becoming a good alternative. They are custom-made, clear plastic trays that can be removed for eating and cleaning, making them more convenient and easier to maintain. This set of aligners needs to be worn for 1-2 weeks, and it gradually shifts your teeth to the right place. Then the next set of aligners are given, and it progresses like this till your treatment outcome is met. They are often more comfortable than braces and ideal for individuals seeking a less noticeable treatment option.

If the malocclusion case is severe, then jaw surgery may be needed. This surgery adjusts the positioning of the upper and lower jaws; thus, it improves its function and aesthetic alignment. Although highly effective, it requires a lengthy recovery period and carries additional risks.

Overall, clear aligners offer a comfortable, aesthetically pleasing, and convenient solution for most people with malocclusion, proving to be an effective long-term investment for maintaining your oral health.

Conclusion

When teeth are misaligned, that is, you have a malocclusion, it can affect your oral health, function, and confidence. Its causes range from genetics to habits like thumb sucking or injury, making early treatment crucial. Left untreated, it can lead to tooth decay, difficulty speaking or chewing, and lower self-esteem. Depending on dental requirements and personal preferences, treatment options like braces, aligners, and even jaw surgery can help. Clear aligners in particular offer a more comfortable, discreet option for correcting malocclusions and improving both oral health and confidence.

FAQs

1. What causes malocclusion?

Malocclusion can happen due to genetics, thumb sucking, injury, or even grinding your teeth. It is often a mix of factors like jaw size, tooth alignment, or habits from childhood.

2. How is malocclusion treated?

Treatment usually involves braces, clear aligners, or sometimes jaw surgery. Traditionally braces were used, but now aligners are becoming a popular choice because they are clear, removable, and more comfortable than braces.

3. Can malocclusion affect my health?

Yes, if left untreated, malocclusion can cause issues like tooth decay, gum disease, trouble chewing, and jaw pain. It might even lead to headaches or wear down your teeth over time.

4. What is the difference between braces and clear aligners?

Braces use metal brackets and wires to shift teeth, while clear aligners are removable, see-through trays that move your teeth more discreetly. Aligners give more comfortable and are less noticeable.

5. Can malocclusion affect my appearance?

Yes, it can! Malocclusion may cause your teeth to look uneven or make your smile feel less confident. Getting it treated can help balance your face and improve both your smile and self-esteem.

6. Is malocclusion hereditary?

Yes, genetics play a major role in malocclusion. Traits like jaw size, tooth alignment, and bite patterns can be inherited, increasing the likelihood of developing a misaligned bite.

7. When should I seek treatment for malocclusion?

It is recommended to seek treatment for malocclusion during childhood or early adolescence. Early detection allows for more effective and less invasive treatments, preventing long-term oral health issues.