Understanding Malocclusion and Its Treatments

Ever feel like your bite just doesn’t feel quite right? Or maybe your child’s teeth don’t seem to be lining up as they should? You’re not alone—and there’s a good chance malocclusion is the reason.

Malocclusion is the technical term for a misaligned bite, and it’s one of the most common reasons people seek orthodontic treatment. At Larson Orthodontics, we help patients of all ages correct bite problems to improve not just the look of their smile, but also their long-term oral health and comfort.

In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about malocclusion: what causes it, how it can impact your health, and the modern treatment options available to correct it.

What Is Malocclusion?

Malocclusion occurs when the upper and lower teeth don’t fit together properly when the mouth is closed. Ideally, your teeth should come together in a way that allows for even chewing and minimal stress on your jaw. But when the teeth or jaws are misaligned, it can lead to a number of issues.

Common signs of malocclusion include:

• Crowded or crooked teeth
• Overbite or underbite
• Difficulty chewing or biting
• Speech challenges
• Jaw pain or popping sounds
• Uneven tooth wear

What Causes Malocclusion?

Malocclusion can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics and environmental habits. Some of the most common causes include:

• Inherited traits (jaw size or tooth shape)
• Thumb sucking or pacifier use beyond age 3
• Tongue thrusting or prolonged bottle feeding
• Early loss of baby teeth
• Injuries or trauma to the face or jaw
• Impacted or missing teeth

In some cases, the cause is purely developmental—meaning the teeth or jaw didn’t grow quite in sync.

Types of Malocclusion

There are several types of malocclusion, each with its own treatment approach. The most common include:

1. Overbite

Occurs when the upper front teeth excessively overlap the lower front teeth. A slight overbite is normal, but a deep overbite can cause jaw strain and tooth wear.

2. Underbite

The lower teeth protrude past the upper teeth. This can create a “bulldog” appearance and may impact speech, chewing, and jaw health.

3. Crossbite

Some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when biting down. Crossbites can occur in the front or back of the mouth and may cause tooth wear and facial asymmetry.

4. Open Bite

The upper and lower teeth do not touch when the mouth is closed, creating a gap. Often caused by thumb sucking or tongue thrusting, open bites can interfere with chewing and speech.

5. Crowding

Occurs when there isn’t enough space in the jaw for all the teeth to fit properly. Crowded teeth can overlap or twist and are harder to keep clean.

6. Spacing

The opposite of crowding—extra space between teeth due to missing teeth or abnormal jaw development.

Why Malocclusion Should Be Treated

While some minor bite issues are mostly cosmetic, moderate to severe malocclusion can lead to a range of health problems if left untreated:

• Difficulty chewing and digesting food properly
• Increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease due to hard-to-clean areas
• Jaw pain, TMJ problems, or chronic headaches
• Speech difficulties or lisping
• Worn-down teeth or enamel damage
• Lower self-confidence from aesthetic concerns

Treating malocclusion isn’t just about looks—it’s about long-term function, health, and quality of life.

How Is Malocclusion Diagnosed?

At Larson Orthodontics, we use modern diagnostic tools—including digital X-rays, 3D scans, and bite assessments—to evaluate your alignment and determine the severity of your malocclusion. From there, we create a personalized treatment plan based on your age, goals, and bite needs.

Treatment Options for Malocclusion

Orthodontic treatment can range from simple to complex, depending on the type and severity of malocclusion. Common options include:

1. Braces

Traditional braces remain one of the most effective solutions for moderate to severe malocclusion. Brackets and wires gradually shift teeth into alignment while correcting the bite over time.

2. Invisalign (Clear Aligners)

A great option for many teens and adults with mild to moderate bite issues. Invisalign uses custom-made, removable aligners to guide teeth into proper position—discreetly and comfortably.

3. Palatal Expanders

Often used in children or teens whose upper jaws need widening to correct crossbites or create space for crowded teeth.

4. Elastics or Rubber Bands

Used with braces or aligners to help correct jaw positioning by applying targeted pressure.

5. Surgical Orthodontics

In severe cases or in adults with skeletal discrepancies, orthognathic surgery may be required in combination with orthodontics to fully correct the bite.

We’ll always recommend the most conservative, effective treatment for your specific case—and guide you through each step of the process.

When to Seek Treatment

Early intervention is key. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7, but it’s never too late to seek treatment.

If you or your child are experiencing:

• Difficulty biting or chewing
• Mouth breathing or thumb sucking past age 4
• Crooked, crowded, or gapped teeth
• Jaw pain or popping sounds
• A noticeable overbite, underbite, or crossbite

… it’s time to schedule a consultation.

Let’s Realign Your Smile—and Your Health

Malocclusion is more than just a cosmetic concern—it’s a functional issue that can impact your daily life and long-term oral health. The good news? With the right treatment, you can achieve a smile that looks great, feels comfortable, and functions exactly as it should.

At Larson Orthodontics, we’re here to help you or your child achieve a healthier, more balanced bite with customized, modern care. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward a straighter, healthier smile.