Malokklúzió

Malokklúzió refers to the misalignment of teeth and jaws, meaning the upper and lower teeth do not fit together properly when the mouth is closed. This condition can affect the appearance of a person's smile and can also lead to functional problems.

There are several common types of malokklúzió. An overbite (distokklúzió) occurs when the upper front teeth excessively overlap the lower front teeth. An underbite (mesiokklúzió) is the opposite, where the lower front teeth protrude in front of the upper front teeth. Crossbite happens when some upper teeth bite on the inside of the lower teeth. Open bite is when the front or back teeth do not touch when the mouth is closed. Crowding occurs when there isn't enough space for all the teeth to erupt properly.

The causes of malokklúzió are varied and can include genetic factors, where the size and shape of the jaw or teeth are inherited. Habits during childhood, such as prolonged thumb sucking, pacifier use, or tongue thrusting, can also contribute to misalignment. The premature loss of baby teeth can lead to adult teeth shifting into the empty spaces, causing crowding or misalignment.

Malokklúzió can result in a range of issues. Beyond cosmetic concerns, it can make oral hygiene more difficult, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Difficulty chewing, uneven wear of the teeth, and speech impediments are also potential consequences.

Diagnosis is typically made by a dentist or orthodontist through a visual examination, dental X-rays, and sometimes by taking impressions of the teeth. Treatment options depend on the severity and type of malokklúzió and may include orthodontic appliances like braces, aligners, or in some cases, surgery to correct jaw alignment. Early intervention is often beneficial, particularly in children.