Occlusion Problems: Types, Symptoms and Treatment Options

Occlusion problems, also known as malocclusions, occur when the upper and lower teeth do not align properly. This condition can cause jaw pain, difficulty in chewing and negatively affect the aesthetics of the smile.

Recognising the type and severity of the problem is essential to identify the most suitable treatment and improve overall oral health.

What are Occlusion Problems (Malocclusion)?

Occlusion problems, or malocclusions, refer to a misalignment between the upper and lower teeth when the jaws are closed. This condition can range from slight spacing to severe misalignment of the jaw.

Malocclusion can affect smile aesthetics, chewing, speech and even oral hygiene. It often develops during childhood, but can worsen over time if left untreated. Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent long-term dental complications.

Common Types of Occlusion Problems

Deep Bite (Overbite)

A deep bite occurs when the upper front teeth overbite the lower ones. A slight overbite is normal, but if too pronounced it can cause jaw discomfort and tooth wear.

Reverse Bite (Underbite)

A reverse bite occurs when the lower teeth protrude beyond the upper teeth. It can make chewing and phonation difficult and alter the aesthetic balance of the face.

Crossbite

Crossbite occurs when some upper teeth bite into lower teeth. It can affect the front or back teeth, causing tooth wear, gum problems or jaw pain.

Open Bite

In the open bite, the front teeth do not touch when the mouth is closed, leaving a visible space. This disorder can hinder chewing and speech, and is often related to thumb sucking or tongue thrust.

Dental Crowding

Crowding occurs when there is not enough space in the arch to properly accommodate all the teeth. Teeth can overlap, rotate or protrude out of alignment, making cleaning difficult and increasing the risk of caries.

Spacing

Spacings consist of visible spaces between teeth due to missing teeth or reduced tooth size. They can impair chewing function and the aesthetic appearance of the smile.

Orthodontic Treatment Options

Orthodontic treatments are the most common and effective methods of correcting occlusion problems. They work by gradually moving teeth into the correct position, improving both the functionality and aesthetics of the smile.

Fixed Luminaires 

Traditional fixed braces use metal brackets and wires to exert continuous pressure on the teeth. They are particularly effective in cases of severe malocclusion and allow precise control of tooth movement.

Transparent Aligners 

Transparent aligners, such as Invisalignare a popular choice for mild to moderate malocclusions. These removable and almost invisible templates gradually move teeth without the visible appearance of metal braces.