The Relationship Between Clinical and Functional Disorders of the Dentofacial and Respiratory Systems in Children with Distal Occlusion and Periodontal Pathology

Relevance. The significant prevalence of distal occlusion suggests that this anomaly is quite widespread in the general population. Its correction is essential to prevent further complications in the development of the dentofacial system. Narrowing of the airways due to anatomical or physiological restrictions during craniofacial development, in particular, retrognathia of the lower jaw, can cause impaired external respiratory function. In children with impaired respiratory function, the lack of mechanical cleaning of saliva leads to the accumulation of food debris and plaque, resulting in the development of acidic and acidogenic microflora in the oral cavity, which can cause caries, bad breath, and periodontal pathology. Purpose: to establish the relationship between nasal breathing disorders, the presence of distal occlusion, and the development of periodontal pathology in children, to identify the pathogenetic mechanisms of their combination, and to determine the role of functional factors in the formation of complex dental pathology. Material and methods. One hundred sixty-seven children aged 6–14 years with distal occlusion were examined. Clinical (to determine the dysfunction of the dento-maxillary system), anthropometric, functional, and statistical studies were conducted. Nasal breathing disorders were analyzed using functional respiratory tests and the results of breathing studies conducted with a capnotrainer. Results. In children with distal occlusion and periodontal pathology during the alternating bite period, narrowing of the dental arches, signs of gingival inflammation, and impaired respiratory function were observed. The predominance of the oral type of breathing and a decrease in vital capacity of the lungs, as well as the Stange functional test, were recorded. The relationship between occlusion pathology, periodontal condition, and functional indicators of the respiratory system has been established. Conclusion. The obtained data emphasize the need for an interdisciplinary approach in the diagnosis and treatment of children with distal occlusion, which involves the collaboration of a dentist, otolaryngologist, and pediatrician for the early detection of functional disorders and the prevention of associated complications.