ASSOCIATION BETWEEN ORAL HABITS AND DENTAL OCCLUSION PATTERNS IN SCHOOL CHILDREN IN NORTH EASTERN MEXICO

Introduction:Dental malocclusion is a common alteration in childhood
, influenced by genetic and environmental factors, among which nonfunctional oral habits stand out. When a habit persists beyond three or
four years and after the appearance of permanent teeth, it causes an
alteration to the harmony of the dental structure, as well as to the oral
musculature and occlusal function.
Objective:To determine Association between Oral Habits and Dental
Occlusion Patterns in Schoolchildren in Northeastern Mexico.
Material and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 150
school-aged children. A validated questionnaire was applied to parents
to identify oral habits and the molar class was clinically evaluate accord
ing to Angle.
Results: Distribution of molar classes: Class I was the most prevalent
(60–62%), followed by Class III (22–26%) and Class II (12–18%). Oral
habits: Digital sucking: 36% of cases. Atypical swallowing: More
frequent in Class III (12% in Class II, p = 0.085). Lip sucking: Low
prevalence (16%). Age and gender: male (52%), 9 years (32%).
Conclusion:Molar Class I was the most common,a marginal,non signif
icant trend toward association between atypical swallowing and Class
III.These findings reinforce the importance of early detection and interd
isciplinary management in pediatric patients with persistent oral habits,
especially those with Class III molar or altered facial patterns.