Normal Occlusion – The dental arches are in correct alignment, with all the teeth in anatomically correct contacts, and in physiologically optimal occlusion with the corresponding teeth in the opposite dental arch.
Malocclusion – Malocclusion is defined as an irregularity of the teeth. The etiology of malocclusion is generally categorized into two causes: (1) Hereditary, such as jaw‐teeth size discrepancy, and (2) Developmental, such as premature loss of teeth or habits (e.g. thumb sucking or tongue thrusting).
Malocclusion may be associated with one or more of the following –
Malposition of the teeth –
Malrelationship of the Dental Arches
Shape of Dental Arches, and Associated Facial Types
Classification of Malocclusion
Molar Classification (Angle’s Classification) - Was developed in 1890, Angle’s classification system was based on the upper first molars as being the "Key to Occlusion". According to Angle, the mesiobuccal cusp of the upper molar should occlude in the buccal grove of the lower first molar.
Canine Relationship
In situations where early extraction of the first molars has occurred, the alternative to using the Angle’s classification of malocclusion is to use the position of the canine to determine which type of occlusion.
Incisor Classification
Although several authors have calssified malocclusion, these are some of the most commonly used systems in day-today clinical scenarios.
Article by Dr. Siri. P.B.