What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics (or·tho·don·tics)
The treatment of irregularities in the teeth and jaws
What is a malocclusion?
Malocclusion (mal·occ·lu·sion)
A malocclusion is a misalignment of teeth or incorrect relation between the teeth of the two dental arches.
What are the skeletal classifications?
The position of the lower jaw in relation to the upper jaw is assessed and categorised by the orthodontist to advise the most suitable treatment options. The following are the categories:
Class I skeletal relationship – the jaws are aligned in exact size and balanced facial profile between upper and lower face
Class II skeletal relationship – the lower jaw is smaller than the top resulting in a shorter, lower facial profile
Class III skeletal relationship – the lower jaw is larger than the upper resulting in the presence of a prominent chin
What are the dental classifications?
Class One (Cl I) – The top and bottom jaws are aligned with the lower sitting behind the upper, and the teeth matching this
Class Two (Cl II) – The bottom jaw is smaller than the top jaw, with the lower teeth sitting far behind the upper
Class Three (Cl III) – The bottom jaw is larger than the top jaw, which may result in an edge-to-edge bite or a reverse overjet with the lower teeth sitting in front of the upper teeth
Malocclusions can be the result of horizontal or vertical jaw discrepancies. Long faces may lead to open bite, while short faces can be coupled to a deep bite. Malocclusions can be secondary to transverse skeletal discrepancy or a skeletal asymmetry.
However, there are many other more common causes for open bites (such as tongue thrusting and thumb sucking), and likewise for deep bites.
South East Orthodontics Melbourne
Our friendly staff are dedicated to ensuring your treatment is as comfortable as possible.
We provide consultation, prevention and treatment for a range of dental health disorders, whilst also correcting jaws and aligning teeth with a variety of orthodontic treatments.
For more information on how South East Orthodontics can help you, or to book an appointment, please contact us.
