On this page · 7 sections
01Why it matters
Malocclusion is the dental word for a bad bite. Your upper and lower teeth are meant to fit together evenly when you close your mouth. When they do not, some teeth take more force than others. Over time, that can wear down tooth enamel, chip teeth, or strain the jaw joints.
Crowded or crooked teeth are also harder to brush and floss. Plaque can build up in tight spaces, which raises the risk of a cavity and gum problems. Some people also feel unhappy with how their smile looks.
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Malocclusion means the teeth do not line up as they should when the jaws close. Common kinds: crowding, when there is not enough room; an overbite, when the upper front teeth overlap the lower ones too much; an underbite, when the lower teeth sit in front; and a crossbite, when some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth.
02Types
- Crowding: there is not enough room, so teeth overlap or twist.
- Spacing: there are gaps between teeth.
- Overbite: the upper front teeth cover too much of the lower front teeth.
- Underbite: the lower front teeth sit in front of the upper front teeth.
- Crossbite: some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when you bite.
- Open bite: the front teeth do not touch when the back teeth meet.
03Signs and causes
Signs can include crooked teeth, trouble biting or chewing, or biting your cheek by accident. A jaw that clicks or feels sore can also be a sign. Some people notice a change in how they speak.
Many bite problems are inherited, since jaw size and tooth size run in families. Other causes include long-lasting thumb sucking or pacifier use and baby teeth lost too early or too late. Missing teeth, extra teeth, and jaw injuries can also play a part. Grinding, called bruxism, can make bite problems feel worse.
04What happens
The dentist looks at how your teeth fit together and may take X-rays or photos. Not every bite problem needs treatment. If yours does, the dentist will explain what is causing it and what can help.
Treatment may include braces or clear aligners, which slowly move teeth into better positions. For this kind of care, we may refer you to a dentist with advanced training in straightening teeth. Some cases also need a retainer, tooth removal, or, rarely, jaw surgery. For children, regular checkups help the dentist spot a bite problem while the jaw is still growing.
05Cost factors
What care costs depends on:
- How serious the bite problem is.
- Which type of treatment is recommended, and how long it lasts.
- Whether a referral is needed.
- Your dental insurance plan. Call the office to check what your plan covers.
- The option to use CareCredit for care provided at the office.
06Caring for your teeth
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, with extra care in crowded areas.
- Clean between your teeth every day with floss or another cleaner.
- Help young children stop thumb sucking and pacifier use as they grow.
- Wear a mouthguard for contact sports to protect your teeth and jaw.
- Keep regular checkups so the dentist can watch how your bite changes.
Wondering whether your bite or your child's bite needs attention? Call the office and ask what options are available. Contact the office.
07Questions people ask
Does every bad bite need treatment?
No. Many people have a mild bite problem that causes no trouble. Treatment is usually suggested when the bite makes chewing, cleaning, or speaking harder, wears teeth down, or strains the jaw. The dentist can tell you whether yours needs attention.
Can adults have their bite corrected?
Yes. Teeth can be moved in adults as well as children, as long as the gums and bone are healthy. Adults may choose braces or clear aligners. The dentist can check your gums first and talk with you about a referral.
When should my child's bite be checked?
The dentist checks your child's bite at regular checkups. Mention crowded or gapped teeth, trouble chewing, mouth breathing, or thumb sucking that continues as adult teeth come in. Finding a problem early can make treatment simpler.
Can malocclusion cause jaw pain?
It can. A bite that does not meet evenly may strain the jaw joints and chewing muscles. Grinding or clenching can make this worse. If your jaw often clicks, locks, or aches, mention it at your next exam.
Dr. Sadek is the family dentist at Americana Family Dental on Americana Blvd in Orlando. He reviews the health information on this site. Review date: [date pending review]