The technical term for orthodontic dental and facial irregularities is malocclusion, which literally means 'bad bite.' Malocclusion involves the misalignment of the teeth and jaws and/or an incorrect relationship between the upper and lower dental arches. Malocclusion can be dental, where the teeth aren't lined up properly and skeletal, which occurs when the upper and lower jaws do not line up correctly.
The way the teeth fit together is extremely important in how well teeth work and can affect appearance and self-esteem and the health of the teeth, digestion, and overall health. Because of the pressure the jaws can put on the teeth, misaligned teeth can also cause chronic pain and soreness. The most common causes of malocclusion are too much or not enough room in the jaw (or jaws) for the teeth.
CLASSES
The father of modern orthodontics, Edward Hartley Angle, created the classifications of malocclusion, based on the placement of the first molars. Malocclusions are divided mainly into three types: Class I, Class II and Class III.
In Class I malocclusion, the relationship of the first molars is normal and the upper and lower jaws are in a normal relationship to each other, but the other teeth are crowded, irregularly spaced, or overlapped. Crossbites and rotations can occur in severe cases of Class I malocclusion. In Class II malocclusion, the lower molars fit the upper molars, but are not in correct position. The bottom jaw grows into a more backward position than normal. This causes the top teeth to protrude over the bottom teeth. This excessive protrusion of the upper front teeth, commonly called 'buck teeth,' is the most common Class II orthodontic problem.
Class III malocclusion occurs when the lower molars are too far forward and don't fit into the upper molars. The lower jaw grows into a forward position, protruding out beyond the upper teeth. Class III orthodontic problems are usually the most complicated and difficult type of malocclusion to correct.
Malocclusion can range from mild to severe. Most people have some degree of malocclusion, and some people even have different classes of malocclusion on the left and right sides. For most people, bad bites aren't serious enough to require orthodontic treatment, but in those with moderate to severe conditions, eating and/or speaking can be negatively affected. Children and adults who have moderate to severe malocclusions need orthodontic treatment, perhaps even surgical treatment, to straighten their teeth and improve their quality of life.
The Classes Of Malocclusion In Orthodontics
Avis E. Ward is a visonary called to unite the personal, spiritual and political through Love. She is an Ambassador of Love, Inspirational Speaker, Certified Seminar Leader and Action Coach. Avis is also an Orthodontic Management Consultant. Avis invites you to view her blog and participate in her forum. http://aviswardconsulting.com or Avis Ward
© 2007 by Avis Ward of AWard Consulting, LLC
CLASSES
No comments:
Post a Comment