Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 11, 2026
Author Spotlight: 3D Movement Assessment of Maxillary Posterior Teeth in Clear Aligner Treatment
Published on: February 23, 2024
The Impact of Asymmetrical Occlusion on Children in the Mixed Dentition Period: A Cross-Sectional Study
Nao Kusashio1, Yoko Hasegawa2, Hiroyuki Yoneda3
1Division of Pediatric Dentistry, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan.
Background:
Asymmetrical occlusion in children may influence maxillofacial development and oral function, yet its clinical relevance remains underexplored.
Aim:
To investigate the relationship between asymmetrical occlusion and oral/physical functions in schoolchildren during the mixed dentition period.
Design:
A cross-sectional study of 374 (192 boys and 182 girls) schoolchildren (Hellman's dental age IIIA-IVA) was conducted. Asymmetry indices (AIs) were calculated using occlusal force/contact area data measured with the dental prescale. Oral and physical functions were assessed using masticatory performance, grip strength, and walking speed. Statistical analyses included Chi-squared test, Mann-Whitney U test, Spearman's rank correlation, Kruskal-Wallis test, and multiple regression analysis.
Results:
AI, an indicator of unilateral occlusion, varied significantly across dental age groups (p = 0.011), peaking in stage IIIC. In IIIA, AI was correlated with age and masticatory performance; in IIIB and IIIC, it correlated with both oral and physical functions; and in IVA, with body size. Multiple regression revealed that lower occlusal force/area and slower chewing rates significantly explained greater asymmetry.
Conclusions:
Asymmetrical occlusion in the mixed dentition showed weak but significant correlations with some oral functions, without consistent links to physical functions. Its cross-sectional design precludes causal inference, warranting further longitudinal studies.
Related Concept Videos
01:26Assessment of the Mouth
Mouth Inspection
The inspection begins with visually examining the mouth for symmetry, color, and size.
01:21Tooth Anatomy
The Crown, Neck, and Root
The visible part of the tooth is referred to as the crown. It's covered by enamel, the hardest substance in the human body. The crown is uniquely shaped for each type of tooth, allowing for different functions such as cutting, tearing, or...
01:15Teeth
In the bud stage, the tooth germ (an aggregation of cells) starts to form in the developing jawbone. During the cap stage, the tooth germ differentiates into enamel organ, dental papilla, and dental sac, which will later develop into the tooth's enamel, dentin...