Occlusal and myofunctional effects of sucking habits removal - preliminary results

Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of sucking habits removal (pacifier and bottle-feeding) using the Clarification Method in the development of dental arch dimensions, bite force and lip pressure in a very young sample of children.
Methods: 55 children 3-4 years old were divided into two groups: experimental group with sucking habits (n=25) and a control group without sucking habits and with normal occlusion (n=29), matched for age and sex. Both groups were evaluated and followed-up for a period of 6 months. The maximum bite force and labial and lingual pressures were assessed using specific digital dynamometers. Dental casts were also obtained from all children.Statistical analysis consisted of normality test, unpaired test t and paired test t (a=5%).
Results: The control group showed larger maxillary transverse measures (p < 0.0001) than did the experimental group at baseline. Bite force and lip pressure showed no significant differences at baseline between groups. Six months after the cessation of the sucking habit, the experimental group showed a significant increase in bite force (p = 0.0143), lip pressure (p = 0.0054) and arch transversal dimensions (p = 0.0035). The control group did not show any significant differences after 6 months, with the exception of increased lip pressure (p = 0.0039). At the 6-month follow-up, the experimental group showed a decrease in open bite frequency from 89% to 25% and a decrease in overjet frequency from 60% to 40%.
Conclusions: According to the results, the removal of the sucking habits at an early age allows a correct development of the occlusion and orofacial musculature.