Posterior cross-bites is a common orthodontic malocclusion that occur as a result of a narrow maxilla and originate from genetic or environmental influences. Breastfeeding ensure that correct oral function is established and development of perioral muscle. In this way, breastfeeding has a preventive effect of the development of malocclusion. The aim of this study is to determine relationship between breastfeeding duration and prevalence of unilateral and bilateral posterior crossbite. Breastfeeding duration was determined in 140 subjects. The subjects were divided into 3 groups: Group 1 (G1) comprised 32 subjects with unilateral posterior crossbite, Group 2 (G2) comprised 38 subjects with bilateral posterior crossbite and Group 3 (G3) comprised 70 subjects with Class 1 malocclusion and have any posterior crossbite. Breastfeeding duration was scored among 1-4 score: score 1 (S1) never; score 2 (S2) breastfed for less than 6 months; score 3 (S3) breastfed for 6 to 12 months; and score 4 (S4) breastfed for more than 12 months. The results were subjected to statistical analysis using Pearson Chi-Square test with a significance level of α=0.05. No statistically significant differences were found among three groups in breastfeeding duration (p>0.05). Score 1 was observed in 6.3%, 5.3% and 0.0% in groups G1, G2 and G3. Score 2 was observed in 18.8%, 21.1% and 21.4% in groups G1, G2 and G3. Score 3 was observed in 31.3%, 34.2% and 28.6% in groups G1, G2 and G3. Score 4 was observed in 43.8%, 39.5% and 50.0% in groups G1, G2 and G3 with respectively. There was no relationship between breastfeeding duration and prevalence of unilateral and bilateral posterior crossbite.
Key words: Breastfeeding, posterior crossbite, teeth
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