This would include overbites, underbites, and crossbites. T here is no specific system of deciding how much misalignment is too much. Your child's orthodontist will decide whether your child's bite will need correction. Malocclusion can cause problems with the child s bite, gum tissue, jaw joint, speech development, and appearance. Orthodontists are specially trained dentists who specialize in the development, prevention, and correction of irregularities of the teeth, bite, and jaws.
Orthodontists also have specialized training in facial abnormalities and disorders of the jaw.
In some cases, a specialist in jaw surgery may need to be consulted. While about 90 percent of school-aged children have some degree of malo cclusion, only about 10 to 15 percent of these have severe malocclusion that requires treatment. Most patients seek treatment of malocclusion for cosmetic reasons, to help their appearance . Children who suck their thumbs or fingers beyond the age of 5 have an increased chance of developing malocclusion. Malocclusion is usually diagnos ed based on a complete history and physical examination of your child and your child s mouth.