Jaw Anomalies
12.02.2026

Jaw anomalies are common orthodontic problems that affect tooth alignment and jaw function.

What Are the Orthodontic Anomalies Affecting the Jaws?

Orthodontics diagnoses and treats anomalies in the teeth, jaws, and facial structures. Orthodontic anomalies affecting the jaws are resolved through a treatment approach called orthognathic surgery, carried out through collaboration between surgeons and orthodontists.

Orthodontists do not only deal with structural disorders of the teeth. They also address structural irregularities in the face and jaw. Orthodontic treatment consists of preventive, interceptive, corrective, and retention phases. Jaw orthodontics mainly involves the interceptive and corrective stages.

Classification of Orthodontic Anomalies

Orthodontic anomalies affecting the jaws often become noticeable during childhood. However, if parents are unaware of the condition or neglect jaw orthodontic treatment, it may lead to facial imbalance and jaw function problems in later years. The classification of orthodontic anomalies observed in children is as follows:

1. Open Bite

Open bite, referred to as an anterior or posterior open bite among dental anomalies, is one of the most easily recognized orthodontic anomalies affecting the jaws.

An open bite occurs when the teeth do not make vertical contact with each other in either the front or back regions. If an open bite is detected, an orthodontic specialist should be consulted promptly to begin appropriate treatment.

2. Class II Anomaly

Class II Division 1 anomaly involves a protrusive upper jaw or a retrusive lower jaw. It may result from underdevelopment of the lower jaw, excessive development of the upper jaw compared to the lower jaw, or improper development of both jaws.

Patients in this classification often have difficulty closing their lips, and the chin appears less prominent. In severe cases, orthognathic surgery may be required.

3. Class II Division 2

Class II Division 2 refers to a condition in which the upper jaw excessively overlaps the lower jaw vertically. The altered arch relationship of the posterior teeth and the backward positioning of the lower jaw can be treated by a jaw orthodontist.

This type of orthodontic anomaly affecting the jaws is characterized by a downward-curving lower lip. Patients in this group typically have a pronounced lower lip line.

4. Class III Anomalies

In this fourth classification of orthodontic anomalies, the lower jaw is positioned ahead of the upper jaw. In such cases, the patient’s lower lip appears compressed, the lower lip line is less defined, and the chin is prominent.

Patients with this dental anomaly may also present with a malocclusion known as reverse overbite. Conditions evaluated by jaw orthodontics and orthognathic surgery can often be treated with orthopedic approaches.

5. Upper Jaw Narrowness

In this classification, commonly known as crossbite, the upper jaw is narrow and deep. Due to this narrowing, the lower jaw appears wider, and the teeth close in a crossbite relationship. This orthodontic problem can be corrected with jaw orthodontic treatment.

You can schedule an appointment with our dentists to learn more about orthodontic anomalies affecting the jaws and their classification. By obtaining detailed information about jaw disorders and dental anomalies, you can begin your treatment process with confidence.

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Tülay AKKOL

Chief Dentist

Tülay AKKOL

Chief Dentist and Tülay Akkol Dental founder Tülay Akkol shares valuable insights on dental health and care, offering practical tips for everyday life. Her articles also highlight the latest innovations and developments in dentistry, helping readers stay informed about the industry's advancements.

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