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Malocclusion, defined as a misalignment of the teeth and/or jaws, is a widespread oral health problem affecting people of all age groups, explains dental care in Plymouth. Residents of Plymouth, just like individuals from any other community, can experience various types of malocclusion, which are characterized by their specific features and possible implications. The article discusses some common types of malocclusion and the potential outcomes they may entail.
Class I Malocclusion is the prevalent type of malocclusion. In a normal bite, the upper teeth slightly overlap with the lower teeth, but there can be issues of crowding or spacing. This type of malocclusion does not always require treatment aside from normal oral hygiene.
Class II Malocclusion: presents with a deep overbite, which means that the upper jaw and teeth significantly cover the lower jaw and teeth. This type of malocclusion can cause the upper jaw to protrude forward, leading individuals to have ‘buck teeth.
Class III Malocclusion (Mesiocclusion)
Class III malocclusion, known as mesiocclusion, refers to when the lower teeth are located further forward than normal, or the lower jaw to be located further forward than the upper jaw. Class III malocclusion can develop the possibility of the same problems as Class II; for instance, chewing complications, speech stress, and facial aesthetic problems. The treatment includes orthodontic appliances or surgery.
Crossbite
Crossbite occurs when one or more of the upper teeth bite or chew inside instead of outside the lower teeth. In other words, unilateral crossbite occurs on one part of the mouth, whereas bilateral crossbite occurs on numerous occasions. If left unaddressed, crossbite can result in tooth wear, gingival recession, and facial development irregularities.
Open Bite
Open bite refers to contact(s) between the front of the lower jaw, the rear of the jaw, and certain lateral or poster front teeth that when the teeth are in occlusion remain isolated. Problems in this scenario may occur in speech, mastication, and facial aesthetics.
Crowding
Crowding occurs when there is not enough space in the mouth to accommodate all the teeth comfortably. As a result, the teeth may overlap or twist, resulting in chewing, speech, and oral hygiene difficulties. Crowding occurs due to various factors such as genetics, early loss of the primary teeth, and abnormal tooth formation.
Spacing
Spacing is a condition that arises when there is too much space between the teeth, resulting in gaps or spaces between the teeth. Spacing may occur due to missing teeth, small teeth, or abnormal tooth eruption. Spacing causes speech, chewing, and oral hygiene difficulties.
Malocclusion is a common dental condition that causes severe difficulties for patients. People residing in Plymouth who experience malocclusion should seek help from an orthodontic specialist for assessment and management. Malocclusion is a treatable condition that heals with proper treatment, depending on its severity. Therefore, individuals in Plymouth worried about their crowding or spacing can promptly visit competent orthodontic services and receive appropriate guidance.
