Final answer:
Option E, an Anterior open bite associated with a lip or digit sucking habit, should be addressed as early as possible to prevent more serious complications that could arise from prolonged habits affecting teeth positioning and jaw development.
Step-by-step explanation:
When considering which type of malocclusion should be corrected as early as possible, it's important to address those that could lead to further complications or more complex orthodontic treatments if left untreated. In particular, option E. Anterior open bite associated with a lip or digit sucking habit should be corrected early. Habits such as lip or digit sucking can lead to an anterior open bite, which may subsequently affect normal dental development and function. These habits, if not ceased, can influence the position of teeth and development of the jaws, making early intervention crucial to prevent more severe malocclusions or the need for more extensive orthodontic treatment later on.
A malocclusion is the misalignment of teeth and jaws, and it can come in various classes and divisions, as well as be associated with specific habits or functional shifts. As students explore their mouth using a mirror, finding their incisors, canines, bicuspids, and molars as suggested in the mini activity, they become familiar with not just the types of teeth but also an understanding of how the alignment of these teeth can affect their overall dental health.