Dental Assistant Practice Exam

Which classification describes normal jaw relations?

1. Class I

2. Class II

3. Class III

4. Class IV

The correct answer is: Class I

The classification that describes normal jaw relations is Class I. In orthodontics, Class I occlusion indicates a situation where the bite aligns correctly, meaning the upper molars fit properly into the grooves of the lower molars, and the teeth on both arches are in a satisfactory relationship. This alignment ensures that the front teeth interdigitate well a-nd that there is a proper balance between the dental arches. The other classifications, such as Class II and Class III, reflect dental malocclusion where there are discrepancies in the positioning of the teeth. Class II usually denotes a situation where the upper teeth significantly overlap the lower teeth, resulting in an overbite. Class III refers to an underbite scenario, where the lower teeth protrude beyond the upper teeth. Class IV is not a standard classification in this context and does not pertain to normal jaw relations at all. Thus, Class I represents the ideal relationship among the dental structures.