Association of nonnutritive sucking habits and malocclusion: A cross-sectional study

Aim: The aim of this study is to determine the relationship between nonnutritive sucking habits (NNSHs) and development of malocclusion. Objective: The objective of the study is to assess the association of NNSHs and malocclusion. Materials and Methods: A total of 400 children between the age group of 3-6 years were examined for the presence of NNSHs, and factors that influence the habit were assessed through a questionnaire that was distributed to the parents of all the children and their oral cavity was examined for the presence of malocclusion. Results: Out of the 230 children who took part in the study, 61% of them showed the presence of a digit-sucking habit. Factors such as parent′s education, socioeconomic factors, and duration of breastfeeding had a positive influence on NNSH. It was found that 58.1% of digit suckers showed the presence of malocclusion. Conclusion: Digit-sucking habits were found in three-fourth of the children and found a significant association between NNSH and malocclusion.