There are three main classes of malocclusion: Class I, Class II, and Class III.
Class I malocclusion: This is the most common type of malocclusion, and it is characterized by a normal overjet, which means that the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth by about 2-3 millimeters. However, the upper and lower teeth may be crowded or crooked.
Imagine that you are biting down on a sandwich. If you have Class I malocclusion, your upper teeth will overlap your lower teeth slightly, but not so much that they are biting into your lower lip. However, your teeth may be crowded together, or they may be crooked or turned. This can make it difficult to brush and floss your teeth properly, and it can also make your smile look uneven.
Class II malocclusion: This is also known as an overbite, and it is characterized by an excessive overjet, which means that the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth by more than 3 millimeters. This can cause the upper teeth to protrude too far forward, and the lower teeth to be tipped backward.
Imagine that you are biting down on a sandwich again. If you have Class II malocclusion, your upper teeth will overlap your lower teeth by a lot. In fact, they may even be biting into your lower lip. This can make it difficult to chew and speak properly. It can also cause your face to look longer than it really is.
Class III malocclusion: This is also known as an underbite, and it is characterized by a negative overjet, which means that the lower teeth overlap the upper teeth. This can cause the lower jaw to protrude too far forward, and the upper jaw to be recessed.
Imagine that you are biting down on a sandwich again. If you have Class III malocclusion, your lower teeth will overlap your upper teeth. This can make it difficult to bite down on food properly. It can also cause your face to look shorter than it really is.
All of these dental problems can affect a person’s daily life in a number of ways. They can make it difficult to eat, speak, and smile properly. They can also lead to pain and discomfort. In some cases, they can even damage the teeth and gums.
If you have any of these dental problems, it is important to see a dentist or orthodontist to discuss your treatment options. With the right treatment, you can achieve a healthy and beautiful smile.