Class II malocclusion, or overbite, can be caused by thumb sucking, abnormally shaped teeth, misaligned jaw, or improper dental work. It can affect eating, speech, and breathing. Treatment is individualized and can include tooth removal, retainers, or surgery. Early treatment is preferred.
A class II malocclusion is a condition in which the upper teeth protrude beyond the lower teeth. This is commonly referred to as an overbite. The causes are varied, so treatment will depend on the cause and severity of the malocclusion. Dentists usually prefer to start treatment as early as possible.
Many dentists believe that early thumb sucking is one reason a person is at risk of developing a Class II malocclusion. For this reason, many healthcare professionals have begun discouraging the practice in children. The same goes for pacifier use and most doctors and dentists prefer that children not use pacifiers after age 3.
Sometimes, the teeth themselves can be the cause of the malocclusion. Abnormally shaped teeth, extra teeth, impacted teeth, or even missing teeth could lead to the problem.
A class II malocclusion could be a problem for some people due to dental work. If crowns or braces don’t fit properly, for example, they could push teeth out of alignment. This makes regular dental visits extremely important.
A common cause is a misalignment of the jaw, which can be caused by genetics or hereditary factors. It can also occur due to improper healing after a fracture. Rarely, the misalignment is due to the development of a tumor in the mouth or jaw.
A class II malocclusion can present itself in several ways. Aside from an abnormal alignment of the teeth, sometimes the face itself will look a little distorted. The process of eating can sometimes be difficult or even painful due to chewing or biting problems. Speech and breathing can also be affected in rare cases.
A routine visit to the dentist is all it takes to get a diagnosis. In most cases, your dentist will be able to treat the condition in your office. In severe cases, a referral to an orthodontist might be suggested.
Treatment is highly individualized. For some, removing one or more teeth will fix the problem, while others will benefit from using a retainer to correct the bite. The appliance is often used for a more significant malocclusion. In severe cases, surgery may be required.
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