Orthodontic Assistant Practice Exam

The term "malocclusion" specifically refers to a misalignment of the teeth and how they fit together when the jaws are closed. In orthodontics, it's used to describe various types of bite problems, including situations where the upper and lower teeth do not align properly. This can affect both the function and appearance of a person's smile, potentially contributing to difficulty in chewing, jaw discomfort, and a variety of dental issues.

The other choices focus on specific situations that can occur as a result of malocclusion. An open bite, for instance, is one type of malocclusion where the teeth do not make contact, while overcrowded teeth can also result in overall misalignment. The complete absence of teeth, though a serious dental condition, does not fall under the definition of malocclusion. Thus, the broad and encompassing definition of malocclusion is accurately represented by the first option.