Class II malocclusion, sometimes called an overbite, is an abnormal dental condition in which the upper teeth moves forward significantly over the lower teeth and cover it up like a cage.
It is a kind of misalignment that damages the aesthetic makeup of a person’s smile and their overall oral health. Knowing Class II malocclusion includes finding out about its causes, diagnostic approach, and the appropriate treatment options.
This important post will delve into the aforementioned factors in order to lay a strong foundation and comprehensive understanding of Class II malocclusion in orthodontics.
What Is Class II Malocclusion
"Class II malocclusion is a type of dental misalignment where the upper jaw (maxilla) and teeth are positioned significantly ahead of the lower jaw (mandible) and teeth. This condition is divided into two subdivisions based on the relationship between the upper and lower teeth"Source
Class II malocclusion are divided into two regarding the dental aspect especially the position of the upper teeth
1- Class II division 1
2- Class II division 2
1- Class II division 1
It is associated with significant overjet, in which the upper front teeth (especially incisors) protrude outward.
It is mostly accompanied by a convex facial profile and a prominent upper lip.
2- Class II Division 2:
It is associated with upper front teeth being tipped or directed backward towards the tongue (retroclined or lingual approach displacement), leading to a deep overbite.
Although it is usually followed with a more normal facial profile, but the lower teeth can easily bite into the upper gums or palate due to a closer proximity.
Class II malocclusion can be of different severity, such as from mild cases where the maloclussion may not be easily observed to severe cases where the upper teeth apparently overlap or cover-up the lower teeth. This condition in severe cases disrupts the bite and chewing efficiency which may eventually impact speech, facial appearance, and even social life.
Causes Of Class II Malocclusion
The development of Class II malocclusion can be due to a lot etiologic factors , including but not limited to genetic, environmental, and developmental influences. Knowing the causes can greatly assist in managing the maloclussion in question.
The factors includes the following explanation one after the other;
1- Genetic Factors:
Hereditary Traits: Genetics sometimes dictate a role in the development of Class II malocclusion for either skeletal or dental or even both. If the condition can be found in either one or both of the parents, it more likely to be transferred to their progeny and be inherited. This traits can also have impact on the size, shape and structure of the jaws and tooth contact.
2- Syndromes and Genetic Disorders:
Some genetic syndromes, such as Pierre Robin syndrome and Marfan syndrome, can make some individuals vulnerable to Class II malocclusion due to anomalies and deformities in the craniofacial complex.
3- Environmental Factors:
"Thumb Sucking and Prolonged Pacifier Use: Habitual thumb sucking or extended use of pacifiers beyond the age of three can affect jaw development and alignment, contributing to malocclusion."Source
4- Mouth Breathing:
Chronic or prolonged mouth breathing, which maybe due to nasal obstructions or allergies, can change and distabilise the normal growth of the jaw and arch relationship when the mouth is opened or closed.
5- Differential Jaw Growth:
Lack of uniformity and tally in the growth rates of the maxilla with respect to mandible can bring about Class II malocclusion. Excessive maxillary growth may and deficient or a very slow mandibular growth can bring about an overbite.
6- Early Loss of Baby Teeth:
Premature loss of primary teeth can disorganise and disrupts the alignment of the succeeding permanent teeth, which may eventually or potentially leading to bad teeth contact and alignment.
That's all as regards Class II malocclusion on this post. More would greatly reviewed in the subsequent posts and stay blessed.
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