Oro‐facial function and quality of life in children and adolescents with large horizontal maxillary overjet—A case–control study

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundLarge horizontal maxillary overjet (overjet) is associated with reduced bite force (BF) and number of contacts, which influence the chewing effectivity (CE). Oral health, oro‐facial function (OF) and malocclusion have great impact on psychological well‐being and quality of life (QoL).ObjectivesThe aims of the study were to examine OF, temporomandibular disorders (TMD), BF, CE, QoL and well‐being in children and adolescents with large overjet.MethodsThe study was a case–control study including healthy children with large overjet in the study group compared to a control group of healthy children with neutral occlusion, all 9–14 years old. OF was examined by use of Nordic Orofacial Test‐Screening (NOT‐S), Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD) and registration of morphological and functional occlusion. QoL and well‐being were examined using KIDSCREEN‐10 and Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire.ResultsThe study and control groups included 37 and 32 participants, respectively. Significantly increased NOT‐S score (p < .001) and reduced BF (p = .011), numbers of contacts (p < .001) and CE (p = .005) were found in the study group. BF, numbers of contacts and CE were negatively associated with erupting canines and premolars. No significant difference was found in age, gender, dental eruption, TMD diagnosis or QoL between the groups. Significantly increased emotional symptoms (p = .007), hyperactivity (p = .043) and total difficulties score (p = .009) were found in the study group.ConclusionThe study group showed higher NOT‐S score and reduced BF, number of contacts and CE. No difference in QoL were found between the groups, although reduced well‐being and increased emotional symptoms, hyperactivity and total difficulties were found in the study group.