A 25 year old male patient complains of frequent cheek biting. According to Dewey’s modification of Angle’s Class I malocclusion, which category would the malocclusion displayed by the patient be classified as?
## **Core Concept**
Dewey's modification of Angle's classification is used to categorize malocclusions based on the relationship between the maxillary and mandibular teeth. Angle's Class I malocclusion is characterized by a normal anteroposterior relationship between the maxilla and mandible, but with crowding, spacing, or other discrepancies. Dewey's modification further refines this classification.
## **Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The patient's complaint of frequent cheek biting suggests a malocclusion where the teeth are not properly aligned, leading to cheek biting, typically associated with **overbite** or **deep bite** issues. Dewey's modification includes categories for Class I malocclusions such as increased overbite (Category 3) among others. Given that cheek biting often relates to excessive overbite, the correct classification under Dewey's modification for such a condition would logically align with issues related to vertical discrepancies.
## **Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
- **Option A:** This option would not relate to the condition described if it signifies a different type of malocclusion not associated with cheek biting or vertical discrepancies.
- **Option B:** Similarly, this could represent another category not directly linked to the symptoms of cheek biting due to overbite.
- **Option D:** This option might signify a different kind of malocclusion or dental relationship issue not specifically tied to the symptoms presented.
## **Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that **Dewey's modification** of Angle's classification helps in detailed categorization of malocclusions which is crucial for orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning. Cheek biting is often a symptom of **deep bite** or increased overbite, which falls under specific categories in these classifications.
## **Correct Answer:** .