Correlation between the stomatognathic system and body posture in childhood: a review of the literature

Abstract

Background In recent years, the relationship between the stomatognathic system and body posture has an increasing importance in the field of dental problems and it’s a topic much debated in the science. Understanding this correlation implies a multidisciplinary approach with orthodontic and orthopedic figures, working in team to improve the treatment’s effectiveness. Objectives Evaluate the literature regarding correlation between postural alteration and stomatognathic disorders in patients of developmental age. Methods Literature researches given in Medline, Pedro, and Central database. Non-english articles and repeated articles were excluded. The selection of articles was carried out on the basis of the reading of the title, abstract and full-text. Results The search produced 165 items. The reading of the title, abstract and full text led to the selection of 18 articles. Associations were found between alterations of the stomatognathic system as well as malocclusions, temporomandibular disorders (TMD), bruxism and oral postures in relation to cervical alterations, scoliosis and posture of the feet. No studies have been able to report a cause-and-effect relationship between the stomatognathic system and body posture. All authors agree in supporting the importance of the multidisciplinary approach in the treatment of these pathologies. Conclusions The high prevalence of postural alterations in patients with orthodontic problems suggests an interaction between the disciplines of orthopedics and orthodontics. The limit of this review is the methodological variability, therefore is hoped in the future a consolidated methodology used in the study of these issues.