A malocclusion is an abnormal positioning of teeth. Some animals are born with or develop a malocclusion, which can cause oral pain and potential infection if not treated.  Although it can sometimes be normal for certain breeds, such as boxers, shih tzus, and bulldogs, a malocclusion should be treated if it is causing a medical problem. The most commonly seen malocclusion is a traumatic malocclusion, often referred to as an underbite; this is when the lower canine teeth are causing trauma to the hard palate. Treatment of malocclusions can include orthodontic movement of the teeth, tooth extraction, or crown reduction and vital pulp therapy.