Pediatric Dentistry Symposium

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Early intervention: Managing sucking habits to prevent malocclusion in pediatric patients


Abstract

Non-nutritive sucking habits, such as thumb sucking and pacifier use, are common in early childhood and often serve as mechanisms for self-soothing and emotional regulation. However, when these habits persist beyond a certain age or occur with high frequency, intensity, or duration, they can significantly impact craniofacial development, leading to malocclusion. Malocclusion can affect not only the alignment of teeth but also crucial functions such as chewing, swallowing, speech, and breathing, thereby impacting the overall quality of life of pediatric patients.

This presentation will explore the critical importance of early intervention in managing sucking habits to prevent malocclusion. It will highlight the role of parental education in recognizing and mitigating the risks associated with prolonged non-nutritive sucking behaviors. Pediatric dentists will be provided with practical strategies for guiding parents in reducing these habits, aiming to foster optimal oral health and functional development in children.

Learning Objectives

  • Understand the Role of Sucking Habits in Pediatric Malocclusion: Participants will learn about the different types of non-nutritive sucking habits (such as thumb sucking and pacifier use) and their impact on the development of malocclusion in pediatric patients.
  • Identify Key Risk Factors and Consequences: Attendees will be able to identify the critical factors, including intensity, duration, and frequency of sucking habits, that influence the risk of malocclusion, as well as the associated consequences for the child's quality of life and the development of essential oral functions like chewing, swallowing speech, and breathing.
  • Promote Parental Education and Early Intervention Strategies: Participants will explore effective strategies for educating parents on the importance of early intervention, providing guidance on how to manage and reduce non-nutritive sucking habits to prevent future dental and orofacial complications.
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