Orthodontists treat malocclusion, a term often interchanged with bite, crowded teeth, overbite and underbite. As these terms would suggest, malocclusion refers to the misalignment of teeth between the upper and lower jaw – or the misalignment of the dental arches. The US National Library of Medicine identifies three different types of malocclusion. rnrn[b]Class 1 malocclusion[/b] is an overjet or overbite. Upper teeth slightly overlap lower teeth.rn[b]Class 2 malocclusion[/b] refers is a severe overbite, also called a retrognathism.rn[b]Class 3 malocclusion[/b] is an underbite, or prognathism. In this case, the lower jaw and teeth overlap the upper jaw and teethrnrnMore minor malocclusion treatment is largely a matter of cosmetics. Treating severe malocclusion, however, is important for functional, health, and cosmetic reasons. This includes biting of the inner cheek, problems chewing, speech issues such as lisp, alteration of the facial appearance, and other symptoms.rnrnTreatment of malocclusion involves a checkup by a qualified orthodontist. They will determine the severity, and offer appropriate treatment recommendations to patients. The goal is to position teeth correctly. This may be achieved with metal or Invisalign braces, or other dental appliances. This kind of treatment can take several years to achieve the necessary corrections. Irregular teeth may also be reshaped or bonded, and crowded teeth extracted. In more extreme cases, orthognathic surgery may be performed to lengthen or shorten the jaw itself.rnrnBryan Hicks Orthodontics offers a complete range of [link url=https://www.bhicksortho.com/patient-ortho-basics.php/]treatment options[/link] for malocclusion patients in the Vancouver area, from metal or Invisalign braces, to retainers and other appliances. New technologies such as temporary anchorage devices provide an even greater range of non-surgical options in the context of more severe malocclusion. Orthodontic surgical solutions include procedures to correct facial bones, the jaw and teeth. Malocclusion treatment is not a one-size-fits-all proposition. rn
