The Effect of Nutritional Status on the Occlusion of Primary Dentition among Iraqi Preschool Children

Background: Nutritional status of children might affect the jaws growth. Aim of the study: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the malnutrition and the malocclusion. Patients and methods: A total sample of 135 preschool children of 5 years was collected. The body mass index was calculated for each child. The primary terminal plane occlusal relationship was assessed in this study. Results: The flush terminal plane showed the highest percent among normal weight than overweight and obese children with a statistically non-significant difference (Pearson Chi-Square-4.562(a) p<0.335). While the mesial and distal terminal plane showed the highest percent among overweight children than normal weight and obese children. Conclusion: There was no relationship between the malnutrition and the malocclusion.