Best way to diagnose malocclusion?

Dentist: See your dentist for this diagnosis or an orthodontist. Are you having other symptoms like excessive tooth wear or TMJ pain? Good questions to ask and have answered.

Ask your dentist: If your teeth do not overlap properly or you have crowding you may have a malocclusion.

See your dentist: Even though the term "normal" can be overused, a malocclusion is easily diagnosed. It can be the challenge, especially depending when you decide to have the malocclusion treated.

A good orthodontist: Malocclusions are much easier to see than treat. The best way to diagnose a malocclusion is to be seen by a specialist in orthodontics. They are trained to not only see the malocclusion, but also why it has occurred, and most importantly to create a plan for treatment that is biologically sound, taking into account stability of correction and facial esthetics.

Orthodontist: Ask your dentist for referral to an orthodontic specialist who is trained in diagnosing and treating malocclusion. In addition to a thorough facial and oral examination you will need study models (actual or digital), facial photographs, x-rays (skull, panoramic, and dental), perhaps ht & wt (if for a growing child), and photographs of your teeth. Perhaps also cbct or mri.

Orthodontist: we are experts in diagnosing malocclusions and many of us offer free consults. Go see one! You can find qualified orthodontist in your area through he AAO (American Association of Orthodontists) web site.

See dentist: Your dentist can diagnose and refer for malocclusion.