A malocclusion is simply the medical term for a misaligned or faulty bite. It most commonly occurs when the size and shape of the teeth do not match the size of the jaw, or when the upper and lower jaws do not align properly with each other and the surrounding bones of the face. Located in Cloverdale, WA, Wright Street Dental Clinic provides comprehensive bite assessments to help correct alignment issues for patients of all ages.
Common Causes of Malocclusion
Parental genetics strongly influence a child's jaw growth and tooth size, but several external factors also play a major role in developing a faulty bite:
- Genetics: Inherited facial structures, jaw sizes, and tooth dimensions passed down from parents.
- Baby Tooth Decay: Severe decay in primary teeth that alters jaw spacing and oral development.
- Premature Loss of Baby Teeth: Losing primary teeth too early due to decay or injury, which causes remaining teeth to shift out of place.
- Crowding and Space Constraints: A lack of jaw space when adult teeth erupt, forcing teeth into crooked or overlapped positions.
Spotting Malocclusion Early
A simple look at your child’s profile (the side view of their head and face) can often help you spot potential problems with jaw and facial bone growth. If you notice an overbite, underbite, uneven jawline, or crowded teeth, an evaluation can help prevent long-term bite problems.
Our experienced doctors, Dr Navangi Fernando and Dr Rajinda Pathirana, along with our expert dental team, utilize modern dental technology to deliver high-quality care to Perth and surrounding neighborhoods, including Belmont and Rivervale. Using advanced digital diagnostics, we can catch malocclusion early and design personalized orthodontic or corrective treatment plans.
Schedule Your Bite Evaluation
If you suspect that you or your child has a malocclusion, addressing it early can save time, discomfort, and future dental complications. Call us today at (08) 9479 1970 to schedule an appointment with Wright Street Dental Clinic!