Metric analysis of the hard palate in children with digit sucking habits.

Background: The effects of digit sucking on dentofacial structures has been widely studied, but its relationship with the function and/or shape of the palate has been negleted. A clinical observation of high palatal vault has been reportedly associated with digit sucking. However, the description has been made on the basis of subjective clinical observation rather than actual measurements. The aim of this study is to assess the effects of digit sucking habits on palatal dimensions of children with digit sucking habit; and compare the findings obtained to a control population.

Method: Cross-sectional sucking behaviour data was collected on 250 school children aged 3 to 5 years using questionnaires completed by parents. Parameters including palatal widths, depth and heights were measured directly from the maxillary casts obtained from the children and palatal index was calculated. All values were compared using t-test.

Results: Significant differences were seen in palatal depth, palatal width, palatal height and palatal index at the level of the maxillary primary first and second molars. No significant difference was observed for palatal index at the level of the maxillary primary canine.

Conclusions: It was concluded that digit sucking may cause changes in palatal dimensions.