Conditions
Malocclusion
Malocclusion means a bad bite. The upper and lower teeth do not line up correctly when the mouth closes, and it comes in several types.
Malocclusion, or a bad bite, means your upper and lower teeth do not align when you close your mouth. Not all malocclusions are the same. Types include overbite, underbite, crossbite and open bite.
Causes include crowded or crooked teeth and teeth that are too large for the mouth. Jaw size and habits such as thumb sucking in early childhood can also play a part.
Some bite problems cause no trouble. Others can lead to wear, jaw pain or trouble chewing. Providers usually treat dental malocclusion with braces or other bite correction. Our office describes straightening options on its teeth straightening page.