Effects of feeding on non-nutritive sucking habits and implications on occlusion in mixed dentition

Background. Several studies have determined the effects of non-nutritive sucking habits on malocclusions, but provided conflicting results. Aim. To analyse the influence of infant feeding In the presence of non-nutritive sucking habits in children after the first year of life and to assess the effects of non-nutritive sucking habits on occlusion in mixed dentition. Design. Data were collected by self-reported questionnaire and confirmed by personal interview. Parents of 1451 children (aged 7-11) were asked about their children's infant feeding and non-nutritive sucking habits. A clinical evaluation of dental arches included classification of molar relationship (Angle classification), presence or absence of crossbite and open bite. Results. Children with bottle or complementary feeding showed a higher risk of acquiring non-nutritive sucking habits after the first year of life (P < 0.01). Non-nutritive sucking habits are associated with a greater risk of crossbite, open bite, Class II molar relationship (P < 0.01). Conclusions. Parents should be educated about benefits of the exclusive breast feeding in the first 6 months of age on mixed dentition. The activity of non-nutritive sucking should be diagnosed in a timely manner in order to reduce the development of posterior crossbite, anterior open bite, and Class II molar relationship.