Comparison of dental occlusion in children with mouth breathing and different types of pharyngeal lymphoid tissue obstruction

Background: The relationship between malocclusion and respiration has been debated for decades. Aim: The aim of this study is to assess dental occlusion in relation to mouth breathing and different types of pharyngeal lymphoid tissue obstruction in children. Settings and Design: This was a cross-sectional study of 200 children aged between 6 and 12 years who were clinically examined and divided into two groups: mouth breathers and nasal breathers. Materials and Methods: The children were subjected to otorhinolaryngologic examination to identify the type of pharyngeal obstruction. Dental interarch relationship and pharyngeal tissue obstruction were diagnosed and appropriate cross tabulations were done. Statistical Analysis Used: The data collected were statistically analyzed using the SPSS version 15.0 software. Results: Statistically significant association was found between type of breathing and pharyngeal lymphoid tissue obstruction (P = 0.001), dental occlusion and type of breathing (P = 0.001), and pharyngeal lymphoid tissue obstruction and dental occlusion (P = 0.001). Higher prevalence of crossbite, deep bite, and Class II malocclusion was seen in children with adenotonsillar hypertrophy as well as mouth breathing habit. Conclusion: Obstructive tonsils and adenoids are risk factors for the development of malocclusion. Early detection and correction of airway obstruction can help in proper growth of the dentofacial region.