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What Is Maloclusion? Our Dentist in Eau Claire, WI, Answers Below

Occlusion is the word used to refer to the way your teeth align. Normally, they should be straight, properly aligned, with the upper jaw just slightly overlapping the lower jaw. Malocclusion is a condition where the teeth do not align properly, which leads to issues with your bite. There are different types of malocclusion depending on the way the teeth are misaligned. Malocclusion can lead to oral health complications, cause teeth and jaw pain, shifting teeth, and facial structure changes. Our dentist in Eau Claire, WI, offers information about this common orthodontic issue and how to treat it.

Types of Malocclusion

  • Overbite: The upper jaw significantly overlaps the lower jaw, leaving a large gap in between the teeth
  • Underbite: The lower jaw overlaps the upper jaw and protrudes outward, leading to a change in the shape of the face
  • Crossbite: One or more teeth on one side of the jaw do not correspond to the tooth on the other side

What Causes Malocclusion?

There are some risk factors for malocclusion, but most cases are caused by genetic factors or abnormal tooth growth. Some things, such as long-term pacifier or bottle usage, or injuries to the jaw can lead to a misaligned bite. Avoiding pacifiers after the age of three and curbing thumb-sucking in children may help avoid dental issues.

To diagnose the condition, dentists run a series of diagnostics, taking into account these risk factors, to determine if malocclusion is present. The dentist examines how the bite fits together and the position of the jaw to check the type and severity of the malocclusion.

Benefits of Early Treatment

Treating malocclusion early is important to shorten the length of treatment and ensure that treatment is the most effective, as it is easier to adjust the bite and teeth in children.

If left untreated, malocclusion can lead to speech problems, face structure changes, and difficulty chewing or biting. Malocclusion can be treated with different types of braces, Invisalign, and spacers. Oral surgery can also be used if necessary, including reshaping of the jaw bone.

Call Our Dentist in Eau Claire, WI, Today for More Information

The information provided in this article is not meant to be medical advice and is for educational purposes only. If you would like to learn more about this and other dentistry-related topics, feel free to contact Hebert Dental by clicking here or by calling 715-835-0606.

As one of the premier dental practices in Eau Claire, WI, our dentists and team at Hebert Dental also provide 5-star dental care to patients from Altoona, Chippewa Falls, Osseo, Fall Creek, Eleva, Thorp & Bloomer, WI & the surrounding areas.

Your Top-Rated & New Favorite Dentists in Eau Claire, WI

"I have ALWAYS been very fearful of going to the dentist. My experiences at Hebert Dental have made me wish I’d have started seeing them years before I did. The staff are all super nice and very caring. One of their main priorities is to make sure that you are comfortable and aware of each step they take. Walking through the doors at Hebert Dental is like coming home to family!"

- Shirley M.

"We love Hebert Dental! We always have such a pleasant experience when we are there! They are so patient with my kiddos as well (7 and 5)! The kids love when they get to go to the dentist, and the staff play a huge roll in that! Highly recommend!"

- Jessica S.

"My mother is in a memory care facility and her dentist was 60 mi away, they were kind enough to get her in and fix her tooth and we were well taken care, they were polite courteous and explained everything to us. They found a way to fit her in and take care of her problem tooth. Thank you, they were all great to work with and took very good care of my 92 yr old mom."

- Sherry L.

"I always look forward to my routine checkups with Hebert Dental. They truly care about you as a person and that is hard to find these days. Diane always has my best interests at heart and is so professional and fun to be around. Would recommend to anyone looking for outstanding dentistry!!!"

- Kory L.

*The reviews listed are from actual patients of Hebert Dental. Individual results may vary. Reviews are not claimed to represent results for everyone.

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