What does the term malocclusion refer to?

Malocclusion specifically refers to a misalignment or deviation from the normal positioning of the upper teeth relative to the lower teeth. This condition can manifest in various forms, such as overbites, underbites, or crossbites, and it impacts how the teeth fit together when the mouth is closed. Proper alignment is crucial not only for aesthetic purposes but also for functional aspects such as chewing, speaking, and maintaining oral health. Individuals experiencing malocclusion may face challenges like wear on teeth, jaw pain, and increased risk for tooth decay or gum disease due to difficulty in maintaining proper oral hygiene.

Other options relate to different medical conditions entirely. For instance, muscle pain usually refers to myalgia or other musculoskeletal disorders, an increased heart rate is known as tachycardia, and a disorder affecting visual perception is typically linked to vision problems or neurological issues. These terms do not share any connection with the specific dental context of malocclusion.