Symptoms:
The common symptoms associated with malocclusion are:
- The alignment of teeth is disrupted.
- Appearance of the face is not normal.
- Chewing or biting is difficult.
- Difficulty in speaking normally.
- Breathing through the mouth with open lips.
Signs:
The most important sign of malocclusion is improper alignment of teeth with problems in eating and speaking.
Diagnosis:
The diagnosis of malocclusion is based upon:
- During regular dental visits, the dentist may note misalignment of the teeth and the case may be referred to an orthodontist.
- Complete history and physical examination by the orthodontist is undertaken.
- Further help in the diagnosis is made by taking x-rays of the teeth, face and head.
- Photographs of the teeth and face are taken.
- Impressions of the teeth are made by using plaster models.
Treatment:
Malocclusion is a very common occurrence and almost every person has some degree of malocclusion, but most of the times no treatment is required.
Treatment when required involves orthodontics and surgery which is rarely required.
The usual procedures are:
- Tooth extraction.
- Dental braces.
- Surgical corrections include:
- Orthognathic surgery for reshaping the jaw.
- Use of wires, plates, or screws for stabilizing the jaw bone.