What does “Skeletal malocclusion” mean?
Skeletal malocclusion is a condition in which the size, position, and shape relationships between the upper and lower jaw are primarily involved in bite problems.
Teeth arrangement and jawbone background
If the jaws have an abnormal front-to-back, vertical, or side-to-side relationship, bite problems may remain even after the teeth are aligned. Tooth-position problems can coexist, so skeletal and dental factors are not always entirely separate.
The role of growth and imaging
The relationship between the face and jaw, dentition, growth stage, and necessary radiological data are analyzed together. A diagnosis is not made just because the chin appears protruding in a photo. We also check to see if the teeth are tilted and partially covering the jawbone difference.
Scope of tooth movement and jaw position treatment
During growth, approaches suited to the growth stage may be considered. When a substantial skeletal discrepancy needs correction after growth has finished, orthodontics and jaw surgery may be considered together. Not every skeletal difference requires surgery; the degree of difference, function, and treatment goals guide the decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
If it's skeletal, can't anything be done with orthodontics alone?
There is scope to improve tooth alignment and bite. However, goals that require a significant change in the position of the jawbone itself are difficult to solve through tooth movement alone.
Can you tell if it is skeletal just by its appearance?
The face and dentition must be examined together and the necessary imaging and growth data must be confirmed. A process is needed to distinguish between tooth tilt and jaw position.
Questions needed to understand skeletal malocclusion
Learn what the term means and how it relates to your dental condition.
- Sufficient understanding
How involved are jawbone relationships in bite problems?
Explanation and evidenceEvaluate the tooth position and skeletal differences together to decide which part to change.
U.S. National Library of Medicine · Malocclusion of Teeth - A choice suited to your condition
How are the roles of orthodontics and surgery different?
Explanation and evidenceOrthodontics aligns the teeth; when needed, surgery adjusts jaw position. The two are planned together so the teeth and jaws fit appropriately.
British Orthodontic Society · Orthognathic Treatment
