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Dentistry vocabulary · Orthodontics

Malocclusion

Meaning in dentistry, with examples

/ˌmæləˈkluːʒən/nounCommon term

In dentistry, malocclusion means: A problem with the way the teeth meet or line up, such as crowding, gaps, a deep overbite or an underbite. It is the main reason for orthodontic treatment.

In Turkish: maloklüzyon, kapanış bozukluğu

How it is used

Orthodontists describe the type and severity: Class II malocclusion, increased overjet (upper front teeth sticking out), deep overbite, open bite, crossbite. Patients usually just say crooked teeth or a bad bite.

Example sentences

  1. He has a Class II malocclusion with a large overjet.

  2. Severe malocclusion can make chewing and cleaning difficult.

Common collocations

  • Class II malocclusion
  • severe malocclusion
  • correct a malocclusion
  • skeletal malocclusion
  • occlusionThe way the upper and lower teeth fit together when the jaws close, and how they touch during chewing and other jaw movements.
  • crowdingA lack of space in the jaw for all the teeth to line up straight, so that they overlap, twist or are pushed out of the arch.
  • bracesA fixed orthodontic appliance made of small brackets glued to the teeth and joined by a wire, which slowly moves the teeth into better positions.
  • clear alignerOne of a series of thin, transparent plastic trays made to fit the teeth closely. Each tray moves the teeth slightly, and the patient changes to the next one every week or two.

More terms: Orthodontics

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This page explains English vocabulary for learners. It is not medical advice.