209-575-5888Misalignments with your teeth and jaw are called malocclusions, or “bad bites.” If you have been discussing the possibility of orthodontic care, you have probably heard about them. A lot of things could cause bad bites: the environment, oral accidents, genetics, bad habits, improper oral hygiene, or a host of other issues.
Malocclusion types can be differentiated as malocclusions of the front teeth, or incisors, and malocclusions of any other part of the mouth. Here are some common malocclusions in each category:
Malocclusions of the front teeth:
Underbite: The lower front teeth stick out past your upper front teeth. This can also be called “bulldog teeth.”
Overbite: The upper teeth protrude over your lower teeth; sometimes called “buck teeth.”
Misplaced midline: The upper and lower incisors don’t line up.
Open Bite: When biting down, the upper and lower incisors fail to connect.
Other forms of malocclusion:
Crossbite: if the lower jawbone protrudes past the upper jawbone.
Transposition Malocclusion: When teeth come in above the gum line but in the wrong spaces.
Rotation Malocclusion: The teeth slip and slide out of their proper alignment.
Spacing Malocclusions: Irregular gaps in the mouth, overcrowded teeth, or large gaps between teeth.
Malocclusions require personalized treatment plans. If you suspect a bad bite, schedule an appointment with your orthodontist, Dr. Joti Kaler. To schedule an oral exam with our team at our office in Modesto, California, please contact us at 209-575-5888. We look forward to seeing you soon!