Malocclusion leads to irregular tooth alignment, creating areas that are difficult to clean effectively. These plaque-retentive zones promote bacterial accumulation, increasing the risk of dental decay. Poorly aligned teeth compromise oral hygiene, facilitating the development of caries. Hence, malocclusion indirectly predisposes individuals to dental decay by enabling plaque retention and subsequent enamel demineralization. This relationship underscores the importance of orthodontic correction to improve oral health.

Reference: Oral Pathology, 8th Edition.