The effects of forceps delivery on facial growth

Postnatal growth of the face is a composite function of genetic and environmental factors. A sudden traumatic insult due to the use of forceps at birth could have long-term effects which could detrimentally influence growth and development. This study examines the development of the skeletal and dental components of forceps vs. non-forceps-delivered patients. The association between delivery methods as related to TMJ problems, bruxism, posterior crossbites, and molar arch width differences was evaluated in 16 forceps-delivered and 29 naturally delivered patients. Results showed no statistically significant difference between delivery method and TMJ problems, posterior crossbites, bruxism, or molar arch width. It was noted that the non-forceps group had a higher incidence of posterior crossbite and narrower molar arch width. The forceps-delivered group had a higher percentage of bruxism and TMJ pain and/or noise. It was also noted that the small sample size may have influenced the statistical relationships.