Impact of asthma on mouth breathing, occlusion and salivary parameters in a group of school-aged children: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Children with asthma may experience functional and developmental oral changes due to altered breathing patterns and systemic effects of the disease. This study aimed to evaluate the relationships among mouth breathing, occlusion, and salivary parameters in school-aged children with asthma. METHODS: This comparative cross-sectional study included 88 children who were equally divided into two groups. Group I (study group): This group consisted of children with asthma who were sex- and age-matched. Group II (the control group): included healthy children. The ages ranged from 6-12 years. An interview-based questionnaire, clinical examination, and salivary biochemical studies were conducted. RESULTS: This study revealed a significantly greater prevalence of mouth breathing in asthmatic children (p < 0.001), especially in patients with uncontrolled asthma. Additionally, they had a greater prevalence of anterior overjet (p = 0.01) and anterior open bite (p = 0.02). Interestingly, none of the children presented a posterior crossbite. Notably, no significant difference in salivary parameters was observed between the two groups. CONCLUSION: Asthma and its level of control may influence functional and developmental aspects of oral health, particularly in children with mouth breathing. Early and effective asthma management, along with monitoring oral functions, can help mitigate these effects and support better overall oral health in asthmatic children.