Malocclusion
Pronunciation: mal-oh-KLUH-zhun
A deviation from the ideal occlusal relationship of the upper and lower teeth, classified using Angle's classification system or the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need.
Full Definition
Malocclusion encompasses a wide range of occlusal discrepancies including crowding, spacing, crossbite, open bite, deep bite, and skeletal jaw discrepancies. The most commonly referenced classification in dental research is Angle's Classification (Class I, II, or III), based on the molar relationship, supplemented by descriptions of individual tooth malpositions. For research documents, editors should ensure that the classification system used is named and referenced, and that terms such as 'Class II division 1' are correctly capitalised and punctuated (Roman numeral, no hyphen before the subdivision). The Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN) is used in epidemiological studies and must be distinguished from Angle's system.
Usage
Usage note: Use Roman numerals (Class I, II, III) per Angle's system. Specify the classification tool (Angle's Classification or IOTN) at first use. 'Skeletal discrepancy' is related but refers to jaw-bone relationship rather than tooth alignment and should not be used synonymously.
In Context
- "Of the 240 participants, 112 (46.7%) presented with Class II malocclusion, of whom 68 were further classified as division 1." — Orthodontic epidemiology study
- "The manuscript inconsistently styles 'Class II' as 'Class 2' and 'class II'; standardize to 'Class II' (Roman numeral, initial capital) throughout." — Copy-editing style note