Relationship between cervical posture and mouth breathing: biomechanical and functional impact
Keywords:
FENÓMENOS BIOMECÁNICOS; MALOCLUSIÓN; POSTURA; RESPIRACIÓN POR LA BOCA.; BIOMECHANICAL PHENOMENA; MALOCCLUSION; POSTURE; MOUTH BREATHING.; FENÔMENOS BIOMECÂNICOS; MÁ OCLUSÃO; POSTURA; RESPIRAÇÃO BUCAL.Abstract
Introduction: mouth breathing in childhood is associated with orofacial and postural alterations that affect skeletal and functional development.
Objective: to analyze the relationship between cervical posture and mouth breathing, evaluating its biomechanical and functional impact.
Methods: a systematic review of the scientific literature was conducted across various databases. The search was performed using an algorithm with keywords and Boolean operators, allowing the identification of relevant sources. The selected studies, after applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, were critically analyzed considering timeliness, methodological quality, and thematic relevance, and were integrated into the final synthesis of the review.
Development: the studies show prevalence rates of oral and postural alterations ranging from thirteen to eighty-eight percent among mouth breathers. Malocclusions such as retruded mandible, crossbite, Angle’s Class II, and increased overjet are evidenced. On the postural plane, forward head inclination, hyoid bone descent, and changes in cervical lordosis are described. These modifications are related to nasal obstructions and harmful oral habits, which condition muscular and skeletal compensations. The literature emphasizes the need for interdisciplinary diagnoses and specialized clinical methods to prevent severe deformities.
Conclusions: there is a significant correlation between mouth breathing and postural and orofacial alterations in childhood. Early diagnosis and interdisciplinary approaches are essential to avoid complications in craniofacial growth and cervical posture, promoting healthy integral development.
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