HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

Class II malocclusion is also known as what?

1. Mesial occlusion

2. Distoclusion

3. Crossbite

4. Open bite

The correct answer is: Distoclusion

Class II malocclusion is also known as distoclusion. This term refers specifically to the relationship between the upper and lower dental arches when the first molars are in an abnormal position. In a Class II malocclusion, the lower molars are positioned more towards the back of the mouth compared to the upper molars. This positioning can lead to various functional and aesthetic issues, including difficulty in chewing and alignment problems with other teeth. Other terms presented, such as mesial occlusion, refer to a different classification where the lower molars are positioned ahead of the upper molars, which describes a Class I malocclusion. A crossbite represents a situation where teeth are misaligned either horizontally or vertically, which does not specifically categorize a Class II relationship. An open bite occurs when the upper and lower teeth do not touch when the mouth is closed, which again does not fit the definition of Class II malocclusion. Thus, referring to Class II malocclusion as distoclusion is accurate and consistent with orthodontic classification standards.