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The comparative effectiveness of two digit-sucking deterrent methods
1School of Dentistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago. dentsch@carib-link.net
The West Indian Medical Journal
|November 30, 2005
Summary
The crib appliance appears more effective than positive reinforcement for correcting anterior open bites and increased overjets caused by digit-sucking in children. This seventeen-week study observed trends in habit cessation and dental changes.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Orthodontics
- Pediatric Dentistry
Background:
- Digit-sucking is a common oral habit in children.
- Persistent digit-sucking can lead to dental malocclusions, including anterior open bites and increased overjets.
- Intervention is often necessary to correct these malocclusions and prevent long-term dental issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effectiveness of the crib appliance versus positive reinforcement in eliminating digit-sucking.
- To assess the impact of these interventions on anterior open bites and increased overjets.
Main Methods:
- A comparative study was conducted over a seventeen-week period.
- Measurements of overjet and overbite were taken at the beginning and end of the observation period using an overjet ruler.
- Data was collected from 11 subjects out of 40 who initially consented.
Main Results:
- The study indicated a trend where the crib appliance was more effective in preventing digit-sucking compared to positive reinforcement.
- Observed improvements in anterior open bites and increased overjets were noted, with a stronger trend in the crib group.
Conclusions:
- The crib appliance shows promising results as a more effective intervention for digit-sucking cessation.
- Further research with larger sample sizes is warranted to confirm the efficacy of the crib in correcting digit-sucking-related malocclusions.