ABC Medical Center > Diseases > Malocclusion

What is malocclusion?

23 January 2026

This is an anomaly in which the upper and lower teeth do not properly mesh with each other, and when the teeth are not aligned—that is, they are in an inadequate position with respect to the opposing jaw structure. This affects not only the aesthetics of the face but also swallowing, chewing, and speaking (phonation), triggering certain dental and oral conditions.

Various studies indicate that malocclusion can be caused by the following factors:

  • Genetic inheritance.
  • Pressing the teeth with the tongue.
  • Compulsive habits such as biting nails, thumb sucking, or using a pacifier or baby bottle for too long.
  • Breathing through the mouth.
  • Using a baby bottle after three years of age.

Malocclusion is classified into three types:

  • Transversal (Crossbite): Excessive narrowness of the upper jaw, causing a crossbite on one side or both.
  • Vertical (Open bite or Deep bite): Lack of contact between the upper and lower incisors, or an excessive overlap of them.
  • Sagittal (Protrusion or Underbite): The lower molar is positioned further forward than the upper molar, with an inverted bite of the incisors, resulting in a prominent chin profile.

Complications or Risks of Malocclusion:

  • Alteration in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
  • Sleep apnea.
  • Bruxism (teeth grinding).
  • Premature wear of the teeth.
  • Pain in the teeth, jaw, and neck (cervical pain).
  • Periodontal disease (gum disease).
  • Deficient speech (phonation).
  • Formation of cavities (dental decay).
  • Dental fractures and fissures.
  • Dental hypersensitivity.
  • Digestive problems.
  • Gingivitis.
  • Joint noises when opening and closing the mouth.

Untreated malocclusion, correctly and promptly, can lead to the loss of teeth. Therefore, it is important to detect it in time to minimize risks, hence the importance of minors seeing a pediatric dentist early.

Diagnosis and treatment Malocclusion

Your dentist, once they analyze your symptoms and clinical history, will examine your teeth and gums. They will take X-rays of your teeth and create study models to assess the damage to your teeth and the steps to follow.

The treatment will depend on your specific case, but the goal is to prevent the premature loss of teeth and maintain the health of the temporomandibular joint.

Malocclusion is corrected with orthodontics, which can be:

  • Interceptive (during childhood).
  • Corrective (in the adult phase).

If the cause is an issue with the bone structure, you may need to undergo orthognathic surgery.

Centro Médico ABC invites you to take care of your dental health with our professional team of highly qualified dentists with a strong ethical sense and supported by cutting-edge technology, which guarantees a maximum quality and safe service in our comfortable and functional facilities with all the latest dental advances, achieving fast care with a high degree of precision and efficiency.

Related centers and departments Malocclusion

High Specialty Surgery Center
Radiology and Molecular Imaging
Clinical Laboratory

Sources: 

  • mayoclinic.org
  • medlineplus.gov
  • dentalcare.com.mx
  • topdoctors.es
  • mouthhealthy.org
  • medigraphic.com
  • Medina AC, del Pozo R. Asociación entre agenesia dental y maloclusión en pacientes pediátricos. Rev Odotopediatr Latinoam. 2013;3(2):58-76.
  • Lima IMV, Rodríguez SA, García GB. Maloclusiones dentarias y su relación con los hábitos bucales lesivos. Rev Cubana Estomatol. 2019;56(2):1-14.
  • Rezk DA, Duque AY, Porras MO, et al. Corrección de la maloclusión Clase III con tratamiento combinado ortodóncico-ortopédico. Rev Ciencias Médicas. 2017;21(6):943-948.
  • González CL, Rodríguez SA, Soto CL. Factores de riesgo de la maloclusión. Medicentro. 2020;24(4):753-766.

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