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Malocclusion--a term in need of dropping or redefinition?
1TMD Clinic, Dental School, University of Manchester, Higher Cambridge Street, Manchester, UK. stephen.j.davies@manchester.ac.uk
British Dental Journal
|May 15, 2007
Summary
The term "malocclusion" is too mechanical and doesn't reflect patient experience or tissue reactions. Rethinking this orthodontic terminology is essential for better patient-centered care.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics
- Dental Morphology
- Patient-Reported Outcomes
Background:
- The term 'malocclusion' is widely used in orthodontics.
- Current definitions focus on mechanical tooth alignment.
- This mechanical view may not encompass the full scope of occlusal issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically evaluate the continued use of the term 'malocclusion'.
- To propose a shift towards a more functional and patient-centered understanding of occlusion.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual analysis of orthodontic terminology.
- Review of the limitations of mechanical definitions of occlusion.
- Consideration of biological and patient-reported factors.
Main Results:
- The term 'malocclusion' is overly mechanical.
- It fails to account for tissue reactions and patient perception.
- A new framework for occlusion assessment is needed.
Conclusions:
- The term 'malocclusion' should be reconsidered or redefined.
- Occlusion assessment must integrate biological responses and patient experience.
- Future orthodontic practice should adopt a more holistic approach to occlusal assessment.
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