Diagnosing Malocclusion
When it comes to diagnosing malocclusion, dentists often identify the condition during routine dental exams. During these check-ups, the dentist can easily spot misaligned or twisted teeth. In some cases, they may also notice signs of injuries inside the mouth caused by accidental biting. To get a more detailed assessment of the teeth’s alignment, dentists may request x-rays of the teeth and jaw.
Classification
When a malocclusion is diagnosed by a doctor, the next step is to classify it based on its type and severity. The most commonly diagnosed form is Class 1 malocclusion, where the upper teeth slightly overlap the lower teeth more than normal. In addition, there may be tooth rotation or overcrowding. Class 2 malocclusion, also known as retrognathism or retrognathia, is characterized by a more severe overlap of the upper teeth over the lower teeth. On the other hand, Class 3 malocclusion, known as prognathism, occurs when the lower jaw protrudes, causing the lower teeth to overlap the upper teeth.