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Relationship between orofacial dysfunction and orofacial features, oral function, and eating performance among
Mei-Chen Chang1,2, Hsiu-Lin Chen3,4, Shun-Te Huang1,5
1Department of Oral Hygiene, College of Dental Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
Journal of Dental Sciences
|April 15, 2024
Summary
Orofacial dysfunction (OFD) affects 80% of preschoolers, impacting chewing, swallowing, and eating speed. Early identification of OFD is crucial for improving oral function and eating performance in children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Health
- Developmental Biology
- Speech and Language Pathology
Background:
- Orofacial (OF) development is a complex process influenced by various intrinsic and extrinsic factors.
- Orofacial dysfunction (OFD) can significantly impact a child's overall development and well-being.
- Understanding the prevalence and characteristics of OFD in preschool children is essential for early intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between orofacial dysfunction (OFD) and orofacial features in preschool children.
- To explore the association between OFD and oral motor function.
- To examine the impact of OFD on eating performance in preschool-aged children.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 243 preschool children and their parents.
- Data collection included questionnaires for demographic information and eating performance.
- Orofacial features and functions were assessed via oral examinations, and OFD was evaluated using the Nordic Orofacial Test-Screening (NOT-S).
Main Results:
- Approximately 80% of participants exhibited OFD in at least one domain of the NOT-S.
- The most common OFD was related to chewing and swallowing (64.61%).
- OFD was significantly associated with difficulties in chewing, swallowing, dysarthria, and prolonged mealtimes (over 30 minutes).
- Premature birth in conjunction with OFD correlated with specific orofacial features like a V-shaped dental arch and high-arched palate.
Conclusions:
- Orofacial dysfunction, particularly affecting chewing and swallowing, is prevalent in preschool children.
- OFD is demonstrably linked to observable orofacial features, impaired oral motor function, and reduced eating performance.
- These findings underscore the importance of screening for and addressing OFD in early childhood to support optimal development.
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