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PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY SECTION

INTERCEPTIONS IN PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

PART III

BASIC INTERCEPTIVE PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

Rajesh Ahal and Ritu Ahal

INTRODUCTION
“Mouth is a Mirror of the Body”
Pediatric dentists play a pivotal role in preventing developing
malocclusions and promoting the healthy growth of jaws and
proper alignment of teeth. By identifying and addressing the causes
of irregular, misaligned, or maloccluded teeth early, they can
significantly enhance both oral and general health outcomes.
The ideal time to schedule a child’s first dental examination with
a pediatric dentist is shortly after their first birthday, with follow-ups
recommended every six months to a year. However, the most effective
time to raise awareness among parents is during the first trimester
through prenatal counseling. During these sessions, pediatric dentists
provide guidance on feeding habits, oral hygiene, emerging teeth, and
other aspects such as sleep. Monitoring any deviations from normal Fig 1: Mouthbreathing causing mandibular retrognathism with maxillary
development is crucial to prevent malocclusion and its associated anterior proclination.
complications.

KEY POINTS
1. Early Detection: Identifying early causes of malocclusion in
children.
2. Interception of Developing Conditions: Addressing simple
developing conditions in the oral cavity.

EFFECT OF CARIES ON MALOCCLUSION
Dental caries in deciduous, mixed, and early permanent dentition
are primary contributors to malocclusion. This topic was extensively
covered in Part I of this series in the Journal of Dental Practice,
including various tooth restoration methods (Ahal 2024, 12) .
1
Fig 2: Pre – maxilla growing anti-clockwise due to thumbsucking habit.
HABITS LEADING TO MALOCCLUSION

Mouthbreathing, Thumb (Digit) Sucking, and Tongue Thrusting
These habits, whether occurring individually or in combination,
can lead to similar or varied effects on dental alignment. Addressing
these habits early, typically between the ages of 4 to 7 years, can often
reverse their effects and prevent malocclusion. Pediatric Dentists play
a crucial role in identifying and managing these symptoms to aid the
child’s overall health.

Mouthbreathing Habit: Common in children with chronic throat
issues, enlarged tonsils, or persistent colds, mouthbreathing can lead
to:
• Difficulty in breathing, affecting concentration and academic Fig 3: Child indulging in the thumbsucking act, which caused the
performance. changes in jaw growth and teeth alignment as in Figure 2.

20 Dental Practice I November-December 2024 I Vol 20 No 5