Classification of Teeth
Teeth & Face Classifications
Expert Insight Into Malocclusions for Healthier, Straighter Smiles
Malocclusion refers to the misalignment of the teeth and jaws, and it can significantly impact a person’s oral health, appearance, and overall well-being. At Freels Orthodontics in McAllen TX, we believe that understanding the types of malocclusions is the first step toward receiving effective orthodontic care. If you’ve been told that you or your child has a malocclusion, it simply means that the teeth do not fit together correctly when the mouth is closed. The good news is that with the right diagnosis and treatment plan, a skilled orthodontist can correct the problem and help you achieve a healthier, more functional smile.
Orthodontists classify malocclusions based on the relationship between the upper and lower teeth and jaws. The most commonly used system is known as the Angle Classification, which is divided into three primary classes — Class I, Class II, and Class III — with further distinctions within each category. Let’s take a closer look at these classifications and what they mean for orthodontic treatment.
Class I - Crowding
Class I: Crowding
Class I crowding occurs when there is not enough space in the dental arch for all the teeth to align properly, leading to overlapping or rotated teeth. This type of malocclusion is one of the most common concerns seen by an orthodontist and often requires braces or clear aligners to create proper spacing and alignment.
Although the bite is considered “normal” because the upper and lower molars fit together in the correct position, the lack of space disrupts the alignment of the other teeth. Treatment is aimed at making room for the teeth to fit properly, restoring both function and aesthetics.
Class I: Malocclusion (without crowding)
In Class I malocclusion, the bite is considered “normal” because the upper and lower molars fit together in the correct position. However, there may still be issues with spacing, rotation, or alignment that do not stem from crowding.
Class I malocclusion without crowding involves other issues like crossbites, overbites, or open bites while maintaining the proper molar relationship. Even though the molars may be correctly positioned, the teeth can still be misaligned or cause functional and aesthetic issues. This classification highlights that a bite can be “Class I” but still require orthodontic care to achieve ideal results.
Class I - Malocclusion
Class II - DIVISION 1
Class II: Division 1 Malocclusion
Class II malocclusion, also known as retrognathism or overbite, occurs when the upper teeth and jaw significantly overlap the lower teeth and jaw. This misalignment is often due to the lower jaw being positioned too far back or the upper jaw being positioned too far forward.
Class II Division 1 malocclusion is characterized by protruding upper front teeth, often accompanied by a deep overbite. Patients with this condition may experience lip incompetence (inability to close the lips naturally), speech difficulties, or increased risk of trauma to the front teeth. Early orthodontic care can often reduce or eliminate the need for more complex procedures later on, especially in growing children.
At our McAllen, TX orthodontic office, we often recommend early intervention for Class II Division 1 patients to guide jaw growth and prevent worsening of the condition. Treatment may involve growth modification appliances, braces, or aligners depending on the age and needs of the patient.
Class II: Division 2 Malocclusion
Class II Division 2 malocclusion also involves the upper jaw overlapping the lower jaw, but in this case, the upper central incisors are tilted backward toward the tongue instead of protruding forward. This gives the front teeth a flatter appearance and often results in a deep bite.
Patients with this type of malocclusion may also have crowded lateral incisors and a strong jaw muscle pattern, which contributes to the unique presentation. While it may not appear as severe as Division 1, Class II Division 2 can still cause functional issues, including jaw discomfort and excessive wear on certain teeth.
Orthodontic care for Class II Division 2 often focuses on correcting the deep bite, improving tooth angulation, and achieving proper alignment. An orthodontist will assess your unique anatomy to design a treatment plan that addresses both the dental and skeletal components of the condition.
Class II - DIVISION 2
Class III - End-on
Class III: End-On Malocclusion
Class III malocclusion, also known as prognathism or underbite, occurs when the lower jaw protrudes in front of the upper jaw. In the Class III end-on relationship, the molars are aligned cusp-to-cusp, which is a borderline condition that can progress to a full underbite if left untreated.
This type of malocclusion can significantly impact chewing, speech, and facial symmetry. It often requires early orthodontic evaluation, especially in children, to take advantage of growth modification techniques that can help correct jaw discrepancies. In adults, treatment may involve braces, aligners, or even surgical orthodontic care in severe cases.
At Freels Orthodontics in McAllen, TX, we assess each Class III case individually to determine the most effective and least invasive treatment option. Our goal is to improve both function and facial aesthetics while minimizing long-term complications.
The Importance of Early Diagnosis and Personalized Care
Understanding the classification of your malocclusion is a critical step in developing the right orthodontic treatment plan. Each class and subtype presents its own challenges, and treatment must be personalized to ensure the best outcome. Whether you or your child has mild crowding or a more complex jaw alignment issue, a skilled orthodontist can help guide the way.
At Freels Orthodontics, we’re proud to provide expert orthodontic care tailored to the needs of every patient. Dr. Chris Freels brings years of experience, advanced diagnostic tools, and a patient-focused approach to ensure that you receive the highest standard of care.
If you’re looking for an orthodontist in McAllen TX who understands the complexity of malocclusions and how to treat them effectively, contact Freels Orthodontics today. Let us help you achieve a healthier bite and a smile that lasts a lifetime.
