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People often refer to crooked teeth and misalignment, but what are the many malocclusion types? Find out the story of your teeth's malocclusion.


People often refer to crooked teeth and misalignment, but what are the many malocclusion types? Find out the story of your teeth's malocclusion.
Class 3 malocclusion, or underbite, is when the lower teeth protrude or overlap the upper row of teeth. If the lower front teeth sit in front of the ones in the upper, it can create a problem where both sets of teeth sit "edge-to-edge" bite.
There are several ways to classify malocclusion, and over time, some orthodontists have developed additional systems and their own grading methods. However, most dental professionals still follow the three malocclusion types developed by Edward H. Angle, who is widely considered the founder of modern orthodontics. He classified malocclusion based on the relative position of the maxillary and mandibular first permanent molars.

When your upper front teeth overlap your lower front teeth while your mouth is closed, that is considered normal to a certain extent. A slight overlap is perfectly normal and nothing to worry about. However, a pronounced overbite can cause problems, such as biting your gums with your front teeth or biting the roof of your mouth with your lower front teeth.

Crowding means there isn’t enough space in the jaw for your teeth to align properly. As a result, teeth can become crooked, overlap, or twist. Crowding can make it difficult to maintain good oral hygiene and clean between the teeth, making it one of the most common reasons adults seek orthodontic treatment.

An underbite occurs when your lower front teeth are positioned much farther forward than your upper front teeth, so that your lower teeth overlap your upper teeth when you bite down.
Impaired oral function with mispronunciation or difficulty sounding out some words is one of the most common implications of malocclusion. Other symptoms range from nonexistent to severe, depending on the type and severity. Crooked teeth, Difficulty breathing through the mouth, back, neck and jaw pain, difficulty chewing or biting, regularly biting the tongue and cheek, and abnormal wear on your dentine. At Impress, we are happy to help you if you are experiencing any of these symptoms associated with crooked teeth.

Mild to moderate cases of crowded teeth

This is when the upper front teeth, sit behind the lower front teeth

Can reduce crowding in combination with intervention
Left untreated, your malocclusion can cause several problems, ranging from chronic TMJ, or jaw pain, speech impediments and functional problems with chewing. Other side effects of dental malocclusion are: Gum pain, cavities, tooth wear, unusual speech, lisps, headaches, sleep problems, facial changes, and jaw pain.

Mild to moderate cases can be effectively treated with clear aligners, sometimes called invisible braces, such as those from Impress. Aligners gradually move your teeth by applying gentle pressure.

While traditional braces can address severe malocclusion, the treatment process is often slow. The wires are tightened over time to align the teeth.

Spacers are used to create space between teeth, usually between the molars, when there isn't enough room for the metal bands of the braces to fit around them.

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Loving My New Smile Journey!
I’ve had my aligners for a week and two days, and I’m really happy with them so far. They fit well, feel comfortable, and I can already notice a positive difference. The process has been smooth, and I’m excited to see the results as I keep going. Very good experience so far!
Abas, UK
August 2025
It was really an amazing experience...
It was really an amazing experience dealing with Impress, the information provided was clear and easy to understand. Nurse Sabah in particular, provided outstanding service and was very supportive throughout the entire process. She was able to respond to any questions or concerns that I had and really made me feel like I was top priority. Thank you to Sabah and the entire team!
Worldine Jean-Guy, UK
July 2025
From start to finish
From start to finish, I have found the process very easy, the clinic was great with me, and the app is fantastic to upload your weekly pics!
Stacey J.
July 2025
¹Based on total operating clinics and treatments sold
²Based on a comparison with other Invisalign® providers in the United States for a comparable treatment category T&Cs apply .
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