A skeletal malocclusion is the abnormal position of the jaws relative to each other and to the face. It affects 28% of the American population (Joshi et al. 2014). It has a large impact on the position of the teeth, the health of the teeth and the bite, where it often causes dental malocclusion.
Common skeletal malocclusions:
- Retrusive (small) lower jaw – this often results in a convex facial profile with a deficient lower jaw and chin appearance
- Prognathic (large) lower jaw – this often results in a concave facial profile with a protrusive lower jaw and chin appearance
- Retrusive upper jaw – this often results in a flat or deficient mid-face profile
- Skeletal open bite (dolichofacial) – this often results in a long face appearance
- Skeletal deep bite (brachyfacial) – this often results in a short face appearance
- Combinations of the above
The importance of treating a skeletal malocclusion:
Skeletal malocclusions are often genetic or developmental abnormalities. It has a significant influence on the facial appearance, speaking abilities, ease of chewing and dental malocclusion.
Skeletal malocclusions are often best treated by a specialist orthodontist at a younger age for growth modification treatment. A specialist orthodontist will also be the best professional to manage skeletal malocclusions for teenage or adult patients using comprehensive treatment. Surgery is not always required and all treatment options will be discussed by your orthodontist.
