Malocclusion - Edward Angle’s Classification Method

Jonathan Alexander Abt

MALOCCLUSION Edward Angle’s Classification Method

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Jonathan Alexander Abt

MALOCCLUSION Malocclusion of the teeth is when the upper and lower teeth are misaligned in the jaw. Once malocclusion is identified, it will be classified according to type and severity.

Angle’s classification method is based on a system devised by Edward Angle, who is largely regarded as the father of modern orthodontics.

Jonathan Alexander Abt

THE THREE CLASSIFICATIONS IN THIS SYSTEM ARE: Class 1: NEUTROCCLUSION - The position of the maxillary first molar is correct but there are issues with the spacing or positioning of the other teeth, including crowding, under or over eruption.

Class 2: DISTOCCLUSION - This type of malocclusion refers to the misalignment of the upper and lower first molars, where the upper molar is anterior to the lower. It typically results in an overbite.

Class 3: MESIOCCLUSION - In cases of mesiocclusion, the upper and lower molars are also misaligned but the upper is posterior to the lower molar, resulting in an underbite.

EDWARD ANGLE made orthodontics recognised on a scientific basis and has been widely credited with establishing orthodontics as a specialist branch of dentistry.

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