Correlation of Hypertrophic Adenoids and Tonsils with Craniofacial Growth, Occlusion, and Breathing Habit in 4–12-year-old Children
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: followed by a subsequent regression until adulthood.10 Children are particularly susceptible to allergic reactions and infections, which can result in pathologic inflammation of the tonsils and adenoids, exacerbating the issue further.Mouth breathing due to airway obstruction results in postural alterations of soft tissues and facial muscles, which influences the growth of skeletal tissue and the development of the dentition.Mouth breathers tend to have a lower or anterior tongue position, so there is no internal muscular force acting on the maxillary arch IntroductIonFor decades, the influence of breathing patterns on the stomatognathic system has been a highly debatable and contentious topic in orthodontics and otolaryngology.1 While some authors consider genetic and environmental factors to play a crucial role in changing the normal pattern of craniofacial growth, the majority believe that airway obstruction alters the pattern of growth, with typical facial features and dentition.2,3 Alteration in the posture or functions of orofacial musculature leading to altered growth and development of the craniofacial complex is explained through functional matrix theory (1969).[4][5][6] One such factor influencing dentofacial morphology is the alteration in nasorespiratory function.For accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of developing malocclusion, it is important to understand its etiopathogenesis.Nasal breathing plays a crucial role in promoting the harmonious growth of the dentofacial complex.However, when there is blockage in the nasopharyngeal zone, it can lead to breathing obstruction, prompting children to adapt to oral breathing.7 Among various factors contributing to this obstruction, adenoid hypertrophy (AH) stands out as the most prevalent cause, with a worldwide prevalence of approximately 34.46%.8 This condition can be understood in the context of Scammon's theory, 9 which suggests that adenoids, being lymphatic tissue, undergo physiological enlargement, reaching their maximum size (up to 200%) between the ages of 5 and 10 years, 1-
Authors: Vidhi Jaiswal, Anshula Deshpande, Yash Shah, Aishwarya Jain
Institution: KM Shah Dental College and Hospital
Language: English
Subfield: Orthodontics
Field: Dentistry
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4413374477