What is Malocclusion?

You may or may not have heard of malocclusion before, but it is commonly used by orthodontists to mean that your teeth are not properly aligned.

Your upper teeth should sit slightly over your lower teeth when you bite together. Your top molars should also fit into the grooves of your bottom molars. In addition to looking good aesthetically, this placement is also needed to prevent dental problems, such as shifting teeth.

When there are problems with your teeth not aligning or fitting together properly, your dentist will refer you to an orthodontist (unless they also provide traditional wire braces and/or Invisalign at their dental clinic).

Braces or Invisalign will:

• Correct and prevent problems
• Correct abnormal bites
• Help with TMJ

Symptoms of malocclusion include:

• Abnormal wearing of your teeth
• Problems chewing food
• Pain in your mouth or jaw
• Frequently biting the inside of your cheek

What causes malocclusion?

There is no single cause, however, malocclusion is often hereditary. It could also be due to sucking your thumb or using a pacifier at a young age. The shape of your jaw could also affect this, or even a cleft lip or cleft palate.

Other reasons may include:

• Lost teeth from injuries or accidents
• Overcrowding of teeth
• An abnormal bite
• Impacted teeth
• Teeth that are abnormally shaped
• Poor-fitting crowns, braces, retainers, and/or other
• Tumors in your mouth or jaw

Please call us at Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry to book a dental appointment in Surrey today at: 604-593-8201.