Malocclusion
Pronunciation: mal-uh-KLOO-zhun
Any deviation from the ideal alignment and occlusal relationship of the upper and lower teeth, classified by Angle's classification system (Class I, II, or III).
Full Definition
Malocclusion refers to the misalignment of teeth or incorrect relation between the teeth of the two dental arches when the jaws are closed. Edward Angle's classification system, introduced in the late 19th century, divides malocclusions into Class I (normal molar relationship with crowding or spacing), Class II (mandibular teeth positioned too far back relative to the maxillary teeth), and Class III (mandibular teeth positioned too far forward). Malocclusion may have dental, skeletal, or combined etiology. Editors must render it as one unhyphenated word and should not confuse dental malocclusion with skeletal dysgnathia, which involves the jaw bones rather than teeth alone.
Usage
Usage note: Always one unhyphenated word. Roman numerals are standard for Angle classes (Class I, Class II, Class III), not Arabic numerals.
In Context
- "The patient presented with a Class II malocclusion and significant overjet." — Initial examination report
- "Skeletal malocclusions that cannot be resolved by orthodontics alone may require orthognathic surgery." — Referral letter