ORTHODONTICS
Classifications of Teeth
The classification of bites is divided into three main categories: Class I, II, and III. This classification refers to the position of the first molars, and how they fit together.
Classification of Teeth Overview
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Class 1:
Class I is a normal relationship between the upper teeth, lower teeth and jaws or balanced bite.
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Class II:
Class II is where the lower first molar is posterior (or more towards the back of the mouth) to the upper first molar. In this abnormal relationship, the upper front teeth project further forward than the lower teeth. Class II problems can be due to insufficient growth of the lower jaw, an over growth of the upper jaw, or a combination of the two. In many cases, Class II problems are genetically inherited.
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Class III:
Class III is where the lower first molar is anterior (or more towards the front of the mouth) to the upper first molar. In this abnormal relationship, the lower teeth project further forward than the upper teeth. There is a concave appearance in profile with a prominent chin. Class III problems are usually due to an overgrowth in the lower jaw, an undergrowth of the upper jaw, or a combination of the two.
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