MALOCCLUSIONS Meaning and
Definition
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Malocclusions refer to dental conditions or abnormalities that result in misalignment or incorrect positioning of the teeth when the jaws are closed. It is a term used to describe various irregularities within the mouth and jaw that prevent the teeth from fitting together correctly. Malocclusions can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetic predisposition, abnormal jaw development, early loss of primary teeth, habits such as thumb sucking or tongue thrusting, or trauma to the jaw.
There are several types of malocclusions, including overbite (where the upper teeth excessively overlap the lower teeth), underbite (where the lower teeth protrude beyond the upper teeth), crossbite (where some of the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth), open bite (where the upper and lower teeth do not touch when the mouth is closed), and crowded teeth or spacing issues.
Malocclusions can lead to various oral health problems, including difficulty in chewing or speaking, increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease due to improper cleaning, and excessive wear on certain teeth. Additionally, they can impact facial aesthetics and may cause self-esteem issues for individuals.
Treatment options for malocclusions depend on the severity and the specific type of misalignment. Orthodontic appliances, such as braces or clear aligners, are commonly used to correct malocclusions by exerting gentle pressure on the teeth and gradually moving them into the desired position. In some cases, other dental procedures or jaw surgery might be necessary to achieve optimal alignment. Regular dental examinations are important to identify and address any malocclusions timely to prevent potential complications and ensure optimal oral health.
Common Misspellings for MALOCCLUSIONS
- nalocclusions
- kalocclusions
- jalocclusions
- mzlocclusions
- mslocclusions
- mwlocclusions
- mqlocclusions
- makocclusions
- mapocclusions
- maoocclusions
- malicclusions
- malkcclusions
- mallcclusions
- malpcclusions
- mal0cclusions
- mal9cclusions
- maloxclusions
- malovclusions
- malofclusions
- malodclusions
Etymology of MALOCCLUSIONS
The word "Malocclusions" is derived from two Latin roots: "mal-" meaning "bad" or "abnormal", and "occlusion" referring to the alignment and contact of the teeth when the jaws are closed. Therefore, "malocclusions" specifically refers to abnormal or faulty alignments of the teeth, such as overcrowding, overbite, underbite, or crossbite.
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