Abnormal implantation of certain teeth (malocclusion)

What is it about ?

Normally, the top and bottom rows of teeth fit together perfectly when you close your mouth. When your teeth do not fit together properly, it is called a malocclusion. This problem often causes extra tension in the jaw, which can lead to pain in the jaw and / or face.

The causes of a dental malocclusion can be various: hereditary factors play a major role, but accidents with injuries to the face, respiratory problems and prolonged grip of the thumb in children can also play an important role in the development of affection. According to a Flemish sample of children aged 3 to 5, open malocclusion (where only the molars touch each other) is the most common (32%).

How to recognize it?

There are different types of malocclusion:

• Distocclusion: the teeth of the lower jaw are implanted much further back than those of the upper jaw. We also speak of class II malocclusion, according to the classification established by Dr. Angle. People with distocclusion often tend to place the lower lip behind the front teeth, which further exacerbates the problem.
• Class III malocclusion: the lower teeth are advanced compared to the upper teeth. This shift mainly causes problems with the masticatory muscles.
• Traumatic deep malocclusion: the lower teeth are so offset backwards that they come into contact with the palate. This shift can cause pain and open sores in the palate, as well as pain when chewing.
• Lateral and anterior crossbite: 1 or more of the upper teeth are in the lower teeth. This problem not only results in disturbed chewing movements, but can eventually cause abnormalities in the development of the jaw joints.
• Open malocclusion: the molars are the only teeth that are still touching. There is no contact at the front teeth when the upper and lower jaws are closed. An open malocclusion is often the result of prolonged grip of the thumb.
• Asymmetric growth is usually the result of trauma, as a result of which the two halves of the jaw sometimes develop unevenly.

Problems That May Be Associated With Poor Alignment Of Teeth:

• Swelling of the adenoids and tonsils can worsen the malocclusion: the space they occupy influences the development of the lower jaw. Removing them may solve the problem.
• Sleep apnea leads to hyperactivity and restlessness in children. Removing adenoids and tonsils can usually help. In adults, sleep apnea causes fatigue, depression and sleep attacks. It can be treated by wearing a CPAP machine, a kind of pump that generates a flow of air that is injected under pressure through a mask. Sometimes tooth surgery is required.
• Speech disorders: A defect in the pronunciation of the “s” (“hair on the tongue” or lisp) appears to be related to an open malocclusion of the front teeth.
• Rheumatoid arthritis, a type of rheumatism, also affects the jaw joint in 60% of cases. This can cause difficulty opening your mouth and moving the lower jaw. Inflammation affecting 1 jaw will cause the affected side to deviate when opening the mouth. A malformation of the jaw can cause an open malocclusion. Early treatment of rheumatoid arthritis can limit the damage.
• Cleft lip and palate is usually accompanied by malocclusion problems. The opening is surgically closed.
• Several congenital developmental disorders can cause malocclusions.

What can you do ?

Gradually remove the pacifier / thumb of your child so that he has completely abandoned (e) at the age of 3 years, well before the formation of the final dentition. The teeth will thus have all the time necessary to correct themselves spontaneously. It can be difficult to get rid of a bad habit: ask your doctor for help if you do not succeed despite a calm and determined approach, with an alternative such as a blanket.

What Can Teeth Professionals Do?

It is important to visit the dentist regularly for a check-up, and especially in children and adolescents, so that he can quickly refer you to an orthodontist if this is necessary.

The treatment of a dental malocclusion is generally supported by the orthodontist. It controls tooth growth and the development of malocclusion, and corrects abnormalities as best as possible using orthodontic appliances. In case of severe abnormalities, surgery may be necessary. In this case, you will be taken care of by a stomatologist (doctor specializing in mouth, jaw and face surgery).

Want to know more?

• Mouth and teeth (images) – Christian Mutuality
• Visiting your dentist – Christian Mutuality
• Dental health professionals – Christian Mutuality
• Pacifier, thumb and company – Christian Mutuality

Source

Foreign clinical practice guide ‘Dental malocclusions’ (2000), updated on 22.03.2017 and adapted to the Belgian context on 24.09.2019 – ebpracticenet