Malocclusion means the teeth are not aligned properly.

Malocclusion is most often hereditary, which means the condition is passed down through families. There may be a difference between the size of the upper and lower jaws or between jaw and tooth size, resulting in overcrowding of teeth or in abnormal bite patterns.

Other causes of malocclusion include:

• Childhood habits such as thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, pacifier use beyond age 3, and prolonged use of a bottle
• Extra teeth, lost teeth, impacted teeth, or abnormally shaped teeth
• Ill-fitting dental fillings, crowns, appliances (Non-custom mouth guards), retainers, or braces
• Misalignment of jaw fractures after a severe injury
• Tumors of the mouth and jaw

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