malocclusion

1. Any deviation from a physiologically acceptable contact of opposing dentitions. 2. Any deviation from a normal occlusion.

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mal·oc·clu·sion .mal-ə-'klü-zhən n improper occlusion esp abnormality in the coming together of teeth

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n.

a condition in which there is an abnormal arrangement of the teeth, either within one jaw or in one jaw in relation to the other. If severe, it may require orthognathic surgery.

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mal·oc·clu·sion (mal″ə-klooґzhən) such malposition and contact of the maxillary and mandibular teeth as to interfere with the highest efficiency during the excursive movements of the jaw that are essential for mastication; originally classified by Angle into four major groups, depending on the anteroposterior jaw relationship as indicated by interdigitation of the first molar teeth, but Class IV is not used (see table).

(A), Normal occlusion; (B), Class I malocclusion; (C), Class II malocclusion; (D), Class III malocclusion. Note the position of the mesial cusp of the maxillary molar relative to the mandibular molar in each type of occlusion.