The Influence of Feeding Methods on the Development of Nonnutritive Sucking Habits and Anterior Open Bite

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Background: Breast milk is a highly nutritious food for children which affects the craniofacial development. Breastfeeding also plays a significant role in muscle function and alignment of the teeth in dental arch. Given the resources in determining the evaluation of malocclusion and harmful oral habits, in this study we aimed to determine the effect of child feeding methods on non-nutritive sucking habits and anterior open bite. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 191 children aged 3 to 6 years from different kindergartens of Hamadan city were studied. Data were based on the questionnaires that were answered by parents. Then children were classified into the following 4 groups based on the history of breast-feeding: G1- bottle fed, G2- breast fed for less than 6 months, G3- breast fed for 6 to 12 months, G4- breast fed for more than 12 months. Children were examined for the presence of anterior open bite. Data were collected and analyzed by statistical tests. Pearson chi-squared test, logistic regression and Fisher exact tests were used. Results: The statistical analyses showed that demographic characteristics such as children’s age and birth order, maternal education, employment, and family income had no impact on child feeding methods and there was no significant relationship between them. Moreover, no meaningful relationship was found between non-nutritive sucking habits and feeding methods. Results showed that there was a significant relationship between feeding methods and incidence of anterior open bite. Conclusions: Feeding methods affect the prevalence of anterior open bite, and by increasing the duration of breast-feeding, prevalence of anterior open bite can be reduced.