Malocclusion Specialists in Teynampet, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Malocclusion refers to a misalignment or improper relationship between the upper and lower teeth when the jaws close, resulting in an imperfect bite. This can p…
Health Conditions A–Z
LabDekho500+ Diseases & Conditions Explained
Understand symptoms, causes, treatment options and prevention for hundreds of conditions — written for patients, reviewed for accuracy.
What is Malocclusion?
Malocclusion refers to a misalignment or improper relationship between the upper and lower teeth when the jaws close, resulting in an imperfect bite. This can present as crowded or crooked teeth, an overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite, and ranges from a mild cosmetic concern to a significant functional problem affecting chewing, speech, and jaw comfort. It typically develops during childhood as the permanent teeth erupt and the jaws grow, and can be influenced by genetics as well as childhood habits. Left uncorrected, significant malocclusion can contribute to abnormal tooth wear, jaw joint strain, and difficulty maintaining oral hygiene.
Mild
Very common — affects a majority of the population to some degree, though only some cases require treatment
No
Causes of Malocclusion
Malocclusion is often inherited, with jaw size, tooth size, and dental spacing patterns passed down genetically leading to a mismatch between the number and size of teeth and the space available in the jaws. Childhood habits such as prolonged thumb sucking, pacifier use beyond infancy, or tongue thrusting can also alter jaw and tooth development. Premature loss of baby teeth, poor-fitting dental restorations, and facial injuries can further contribute to bite misalignment.
Symptoms of Malocclusion
crowded, crooked, or overlapping teeth, difficulty biting or chewing food properly, speech difficulties such as a lisp, frequent cheek or tongue biting, jaw pain or clicking, mouth breathing, facial asymmetry in severe cases, abnormal wearing down of tooth surfaces
Treatment & Types of Malocclusion in Teynampet, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Orthodontic treatment with braces or clear aligners is the primary approach, gradually applying controlled pressure to move teeth into proper alignment over months to years. In cases involving significant jaw discrepancy, orthodontic treatment may be combined with orthognathic jaw surgery to correct the underlying skeletal relationship. Early interceptive orthodontic treatment in childhood, such as palate expanders, can also help guide proper jaw growth and reduce the severity of future misalignment.
Dentistry Specialists in Teynampet, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (0)
No specialists listed yet in Teynampet, Chennai, Tamil Nadu — browse all doctors instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which specialist should I see for Malocclusion in Teynampet, Chennai, Tamil Nadu?
Malocclusion is typically treated by a Dentistry specialist. We're adding Dentistry specialists in Teynampet, Chennai, Tamil Nadu — check back soon or browse all doctors.
Is Malocclusion contagious?
No, Malocclusion is not considered contagious, though you should still consult a specialist in Teynampet, Chennai, Tamil Nadu for proper diagnosis and treatment.
How common is Malocclusion in Teynampet, Chennai, Tamil Nadu?
Malocclusion has a prevalence described as "Very common — affects a majority of the population to some degree, though only some cases require treatment". Speak to a Dentistry specialist in Teynampet, Chennai, Tamil Nadu for a personalized assessment.