Search Knowledgebase

Occlusion

Picture of occlusion

Illustration copyright 2000 by Nucleus Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. http://www.nucleusinc.com

Occlusion is a perfect fit (alignment) of the teeth and jaws. This is also known as a "proper bite." Naturally perfect bites are rare. Most people have some form of malocclusion ("poor bite"). Orthodontists use braces and other tools to move teeth into alignment to achieve occlusion.

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer William F. Hohlt, DDS - Orthodontics
Last Revised January 11, 2011

Last Revised: January 11, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine & William F. Hohlt, DDS - Orthodontics

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more visit Healthwise.org

© 1995-2013 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.