What is malocclusion?
Malocclusion is a misalignment of the upper and lower teeth or jaws that affects how they fit together when biting or chewing.
Malocclusion refers to any deviation from the normal alignment of teeth and jaws. When teeth are crooked, crowded, spaced unevenly, or when the upper and lower jaws do not meet properly, orthodontists record this as malocclusion to establish a baseline for treatment.
Malocclusion is classified into three main categories. Class I malocclusion occurs when the molar relationship is normal but the front teeth are crowded, spaced, or rotated. Class II malocclusion is marked by a forward position of the upper jaw or backward position of the lower jaw, often creating an overbite. Class III malocclusion, sometimes called underbite, happens when the lower jaw protrudes forward relative to the upper jaw. Some cases involve vertical problems such as open bites, where the front teeth do not overlap when the mouth closes.
The diagnostic term malocclusion is essential in orthodontics because it allows practitioners to identify the specific nature of misalignment before recommending interventions. Understanding which class of malocclusion a patient has guides decisions about whether to use braces, aligners, elastics, or other corrective devices. Beyond cosmetic concerns, malocclusion can affect chewing function, speech clarity, and long-term oral health. A clear diagnosis of the malocclusion pattern enables orthodontists to create an appropriate treatment plan tailored to the patient's needs.