Orthodontics and Genetics

Genetics has been suggested as an explanation for the etiology of malocclusions, although some questions, due to the perception that genetic inheritance is tied to a monogenic or Mendelian form of inheritance.

This paper describes the inheritance of malocclusions, highlighting the areas of knowledge where research has explored mechanisms that explain deviations in patterns of craniofacial growth.

Malocclusions have a complex or multifactorial pattern of inheritance, where more than one gene is involved in the development of the phenotype. There is also the possibility that the environment influences malocclusions.