Malocclusion usually causes symptoms that do not appear right away, but instead gradually develop over time. These may include chewing difficulties that can lead to malnutrition in some patients. Patients with teeth that are not correctly aligned are at greater risk for tooth decay because it is more difficult to properly brush and floss crooked teeth. Misaligned teeth also force some teeth to absorb extra strain during biting, which can result in fractures of crowns or loosening of the teeth.

Other symptoms of malocclusion include:

• Difficulty biting or chewing
  
  
• Mouth breathing, in which the patient breathes without closing the lips
  
  
• Speech difficulties
  
  Facial pain

Finally, many patients with malocclusion may have a facial appearance that is considered unusual or unattractive by conventional standards. This can lead to feelings of low self-esteem.