Class I Malocclusion

Class I Malocclusion is the most common form of dental malocclusion in which the bite is normal, but the teeth are overly crowded or positioned incorrectly. In other words, the molar relationship is normal, but the line of occlusion is abnormal.

Most problems with teeth alignment are discovered by a dentist during a regular check-up. If he or she does cite Class I Malocclusion, the dentist will generally refer the patient to an orthodontist for malocclusion diagnosis and treatment.

The goal of orthodontic treatment is to correct the abnormality in the line of occlusion through the use of metal, ceramic or plastic braces and other orthodontic appliances. Occasionally, one or more teeth may be extracted if overcrowding is an issue. In addition, rough or abnormal teeth may be buffed, reshaped, bonded or capped. On rare occasions, surgical reshaping to lengthen or shorted the jaw may be necessary. The correction of Class I Malocclusion, Class II Malocclusion or Class III Malocclusion may also require the use of wires or orthodontic elastics to stabilize the jaw bones.