Oro-facial function and quality of life in children and adolescents with large horizontal maxillary overjet—A case–control study

Abstract

Background: Large horizontal maxillary overjet (overjet) is associated with reduced bite force (BF) and number of contacts, which influence the chewing effectivity (CE). Oral health, oro-facial function (OF) and malocclusion have great impact on psychological well-being and quality of life (QoL). Objectives: The aims of the study were to examine OF, temporomandibular disorders (TMD), BF, CE, QoL and well-being in children and adolescents with large overjet. Methods: The study was a case–control study including healthy children with large overjet in the study group compared to a control group of healthy children with neutral occlusion, all 9–14 years old. OF was examined by use of Nordic Orofacial Test-Screening (NOT-S), Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD) and registration of morphological and functional occlusion. QoL and well-being were examined using KIDSCREEN-10 and Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Results: The study and control groups included 37 and 32 participants, respectively. Significantly increased NOT-S score (p